Info Wiki pcug_info http://pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Main_Page MediaWiki 1.39.10 first-letter Media Special Talk User User talk Info Wiki Info Wiki talk File File talk MediaWiki MediaWiki talk Template Template talk Help Help talk Category Category talk 0 1 1 2012-07-28T01:10:10Z MediaWiki default 0 wikitext text/x-wiki '''MediaWiki has been successfully installed.''' Consult the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Contents User's Guide] for information on using the wiki software. == Getting started == * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Manual:Configuration_settings Configuration settings list] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Manual:FAQ MediaWiki FAQ] * [https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/mediawiki-announce MediaWiki release mailing list] 25b5c21bea6319ae81e1379d4e59bdfe9100ce36 4 1 2012-07-28T02:28:13Z Lpb 2 Create initial main page with first attempt at structure. wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in categories as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). Use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, or just browse using the links below. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. == PCUG [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == PCUG [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == PCUG [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == PCUG [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 41ccbf12d8f96ee375a3c3f3b987592dc1e73623 18 4 2012-07-28T03:30:13Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in categories as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). Use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, or just browse using the links below. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. a210af0dbf2c1fcad0bae9295200420046068eb8 19 18 2012-07-28T03:32:55Z Lpb 2 Add category reference. wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). Use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, or just browse using the links below. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 69178199fc117144e3885863dd54b1edaa59935c 12 2 2 2012-07-28T02:12:11Z Lpb 2 Create page with content copied from TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki For information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] 183fe09ccf30afd398dd2134628bd08b9d98c86a 12 3 3 2012-07-28T02:13:36Z Lpb 2 Create page with content copied from TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki For information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] 183fe09ccf30afd398dd2134628bd08b9d98c86a 0 4 5 2012-07-28T02:32:58Z Lpb 2 Copy content over from TIP wiki page wikitext text/x-wiki '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office closed for Audit - Monday 30 July, 2012'''== While audit is being conducted, the PCUG office will be closed.<br/> Karen (PCUG Office Manager)<br/> =='''Beginners SIG for Thur 26 July, 2012 session cancelled'''== BSIG-ers, Just letting you know that the BSIG session on Thursday 26 July morning at PCUG, 27 Mulley St, Holder has been CANCELLED due to unforeseen circumstances. The session scheduled Thursday 9 August at PCUG will progress as usual.<br/> Eleanor (BSig Coordinator)<br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> 3353ab71d39d5c7144100b45458aaadc3d0285c0 0 5 6 2012-07-28T02:34:20Z Lpb 2 create initial page with skeletal content. wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! 080ef60511bdc6e01640cf6b64b52e830717fa0f 9 6 2012-07-28T03:21:50Z Lpb 2 Add category tag wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] fcd828b8a3df90169fca5e39ac20552bfb9e3229 12 9 2012-07-28T03:26:29Z Lpb 2 Add note on category link. wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 0995fba8559852573f2d706a66c50bef8332ea59 0 6 7 2012-07-28T02:35:20Z Lpb 2 Create initial page with skeletal content. wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please add content here! 23a20f12e21eb23567cc40abb8eb32543199af08 10 7 2012-07-28T03:23:08Z Lpb 2 Add category tag wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please add content here! == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] dda05501281380d7af62afe8977e54f1d325d60b 13 10 2012-07-28T03:27:44Z Lpb 2 Add note on category link. wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] c312288a38230dc2a8c831289895ca9c0632cb5f 42 13 2012-07-29T06:04:52Z Lpb 2 Add note about copyright & global view. wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright grants permission for this before including it on this wiki. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 858b1cbb91eeb6f13bdaf55c500125fdb73e8d3f 43 42 2012-07-29T06:05:14Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright grants permission for this before including it on this wiki. This is some different content! == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 32d54cf0d87b04d76d55635d69d7ee17d8747699 44 43 2012-07-29T06:05:42Z Sfrtest 5 Undo revision 43 by [[Special:Contributions/Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] ([[User talk:Sfrtest|Talk]]) wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright grants permission for this before including it on this wiki. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 858b1cbb91eeb6f13bdaf55c500125fdb73e8d3f 45 44 2012-07-29T06:07:01Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 760d2e37b3e58756f5c96d4762ceb89a8dbf173e 0 7 8 2012-07-28T02:37:14Z Lpb 2 Create initial page with skeletal content. wikitext text/x-wiki This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. More TBA. cd009e3534e06b5875f6972b263d0026999b1bf0 11 8 2012-07-28T03:23:47Z Lpb 2 Add category tag wikitext text/x-wiki This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. More TBA. == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] c6abe90caa86de77c2a1404fd5fdc0723343f50d 14 11 2012-07-28T03:28:08Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. More TBA. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 860d7b210460cda352f930e8a816630257f51019 21 14 2012-07-28T05:48:08Z Lpb 2 Sketch out initial structure with pages swiped form TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== <br> <br> ==== Apple ==== <br> <br> ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] <br> ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Internet Explorer 8 (IE8) Security Certificate]] * [[Firefox 3 Secure Connection Failed]] * [[Outlook Express hangs up after getting mail]] <br> ==== Web ==== <br> <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Printers ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| <br> <br> |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 446279aeb3f63c197e0cb022506f470ccff04f11 27 21 2012-07-28T06:05:09Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== <br> <br> ==== Apple ==== <br> <br> ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] <br> ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== <br> ==== Web ==== <br> <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Printers ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| <br> <br> |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 07aad5608e72107417cb84aaaac09d19bfd48787 31 27 2012-07-28T06:10:48Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== <br> <br> ==== Apple ==== <br> <br> ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] <br> ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== <br> ==== Web ==== <br> <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Printers ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| <br> <br> |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 603d8fdf61fd5ffa4622269cbb53a978cff089f4 33 31 2012-07-28T06:12:39Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== <br> <br> ==== Apple ==== <br> <br> ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] <br> ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== <br> ==== Web ==== <br> <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] <br> ==== Printers ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| <br> <br> |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] f0885e1c7717346d1b34066ef6cc3c4649dba1ae 34 33 2012-07-28T15:11:56Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== <br> <br> ==== Apple ==== <br> <br> ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] <br> ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== <br> ==== Web ==== <br> <br> ==== Wikis ==== <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] <br> ==== Printers ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| <br> <br> |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 55297b0bdccdbd302a9f8f79387db6945a818f56 14 8 15 2012-07-28T03:28:46Z Lpb 2 Create. wikitext text/x-wiki Index of pages in the Technical Info area. 99edbd1cbed73b3047e373af24273d689dffa075 14 9 16 2012-07-28T03:29:18Z Lpb 2 Create. wikitext text/x-wiki Index of pages in the Newsletters area. c982c2f15f490ce422064de5f3a07d5a0be4163f 14 10 17 2012-07-28T03:29:50Z Lpb 2 Create. wikitext text/x-wiki Index of pages in the Activities and Opportunities area. 672281ef44dbc007ca22e8cd0bf08c140b5b2ddc 4 11 20 2012-07-28T05:06:40Z Lpb 2 Created page with "see the [[News and Notices]] page for details of various PCUG and TIP notices" wikitext text/x-wiki see the [[News and Notices]] page for details of various PCUG and TIP notices c6f78b4df49b3a7260f89ea958d0c3e1159f46ad 0 12 22 2012-07-28T05:49:19Z Lpb 2 Initial page copied from TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki The intention of this page is to provide a brief summary of settings that will enable the network and equipment at PCUG Centre to work with member's Linux computers. Similar settings should also work with Android devices, ChomeOS & MacOSX, but the author has no means of testing that. Most of these settings can be implemented by novice users. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === is not supported by peripherals at the Centre: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === Use the settings that are available from the Staffer at the Centre Your computer's WiFi must be configured to use WPA2 or WPA security. Older verions of the latter might not work. === Wired === If connecting via the Cat5 cable in the Multi-media room, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === Internet access should be available after connection to the LAN is achieved In order to use the file server and printers at the Centre, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *the firewall in the Internet Gateway at the Centre should provide adequate protection in this mode == Mirrors == Please use the mirror: http://mirror.internode.on.net/pub if possible. This is an '''unmetered''' download to PCUG Centre, at all times of day. == Printing == Both Lexmark printers in the main room are supported. Finding a suitable driver for the T632 may not be intuitive: *some implementations of CUPS do not include a driver explicitly for the T632 **it may variously be described as Optra T632, Optra C 632, T632 etc **the driver for a T640 model will provide adequate functionality *set as a "network printer" **Appsocket/Jetdirect protocol works **IP address of the printer should be found automatically by CUPS **use port 9100 *verify the settings for default options **tray1 & A4 paper are correct, but some distro of US origin may default to Letter size paper Alternatively, Linux can print to the above printer without having a driver installed on your computer: *Train04 must be booted to PCLinuxOS to provide network printing capablility **for this mode to work, CUPS on your computer must be configured to "use Printers shared by other computers" **from URL http://localhost:631 go to the Administration tab to set this mode *then simply select the lex632 printer from the print menu of your application **it is often necessary to restart an application eg OpenOffice, Firefox etc, before it will recognize printers that have recently become visible on the network **see the article ''Network Printing via CUPS'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Projector == The projector is compatible and routinely used with Linux. *it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner in the media room is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. A set of Canonscan D660U entry level scanners are held in the store room and may be deployed by the Training Co-ordinator, for courses. These do have a SANE backend, but are slow and suitable mainly for training purposes. == Server == The server has plenty of disk space for member use, but this is accessible only via Windows SMB network. In order to access from Linux, an SMB '''client''' must be installed and configured on any Linux computer. YMMV with different Linuxes. *openSUSE **usually configured by default - file managers should find the only SMB domain deployed at the Centre - if not **from Yast, select Network Services, then Samba Client. The default Samba settings usually suffice for access to a Windows server *'buntu & derivatives **TBA == Training PC == Any member may use the installed Linux on any of the training room PC *please inform the staffer of your intended use Only open source Linux software is installed or stored on these computers. It may be copied by members. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 04:36, 21 April 2012 (UTC) 1d1f6c3fd4b30c390cce07b9fafd507b8bb8304d 23 22 2012-07-28T05:50:16Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki The intention of this page is to provide a brief summary of settings that will enable the network and equipment at PCUG Centre to work with member's Linux computers. Similar settings should also work with Android devices, ChomeOS & MacOSX, but the author has no means of testing that. Most of these settings can be implemented by novice users. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === is not supported by peripherals at the Centre: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === Use the settings that are available from the Staffer at the Centre Your computer's WiFi must be configured to use WPA2 or WPA security. Older verions of the latter might not work. === Wired === If connecting via the Cat5 cable in the Multi-media room, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === Internet access should be available after connection to the LAN is achieved In order to use the file server and printers at the Centre, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *the firewall in the Internet Gateway at the Centre should provide adequate protection in this mode == Mirrors == Please use the mirror: http://mirror.internode.on.net/pub if possible. This is an '''unmetered''' download to PCUG Centre, at all times of day. == Printing == Both Lexmark printers in the main room are supported. Finding a suitable driver for the T632 may not be intuitive: *some implementations of CUPS do not include a driver explicitly for the T632 **it may variously be described as Optra T632, Optra C 632, T632 etc **the driver for a T640 model will provide adequate functionality *set as a "network printer" **Appsocket/Jetdirect protocol works **IP address of the printer should be found automatically by CUPS **use port 9100 *verify the settings for default options **tray1 & A4 paper are correct, but some distro of US origin may default to Letter size paper Alternatively, Linux can print to the above printer without having a driver installed on your computer: *Train04 must be booted to PCLinuxOS to provide network printing capablility **for this mode to work, CUPS on your computer must be configured to "use Printers shared by other computers" **from URL http://localhost:631 go to the Administration tab to set this mode *then simply select the lex632 printer from the print menu of your application **it is often necessary to restart an application eg OpenOffice, Firefox etc, before it will recognize printers that have recently become visible on the network **see the article ''Network Printing via CUPS'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Projector == The projector is compatible and routinely used with Linux. *it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner in the media room is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. A set of Canonscan D660U entry level scanners are held in the store room and may be deployed by the Training Co-ordinator, for courses. These do have a SANE backend, but are slow and suitable mainly for training purposes. == Server == The server has plenty of disk space for member use, but this is accessible only via Windows SMB network. In order to access from Linux, an SMB '''client''' must be installed and configured on any Linux computer. YMMV with different Linuxes. *openSUSE **usually configured by default - file managers should find the only SMB domain deployed at the Centre - if not **from Yast, select Network Services, then Samba Client. The default Samba settings usually suffice for access to a Windows server *'buntu & derivatives **TBA == Training PC == Any member may use the installed Linux on any of the training room PC *please inform the staffer of your intended use Only open source Linux software is installed or stored on these computers. It may be copied by members. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 04:36, 21 April 2012 (UTC) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 50cbe20352a99ee65ffaf74152948f8e52ca3aaa 0 13 24 2012-07-28T05:53:59Z Lpb 2 Initial page copied from TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki There are many users out there who, for one reason or another, want to be able to interconnect 2 or more computers. At present, the biggest group is people who have Windows 7 as their main computer, and have an XP computer from a previous time. What follows is based on using a wireless network to make the connection. If both computers can connect to the internet using the same wireless device, they can ‘talk’ to each other. This will take a few moments, and involve a bit of work on both computers. So make sure they are both running, and let’s begin. The first thing is to ensure that both computers share a common Workgroup name. To check on both computers, go to Control Panel/System/Advanced System Settings, then click the Computer Name tab (for XP, go to System then select the Computer Name tab) and look for the entry against Workgroup. They may both be WORKGROUP, in which case you don’t need to change anything. If they are not the same, click the ‘Change’ button and make both Workgroup names the same. [[image: W7_xp1.jpg|center|350 px]] On the Windows 7 computer, we need to check some settings. Go to Control Panel/Network and Internet/Network and Sharing Center and, in the left pane, select the last item, ‘Change advanced sharing settings’. [[image: W7_xp2.jpg|center|500 px]] Turn on (ie, click the topmost radio button) under ‘Network discovery’, ‘File and printer sharing’ and ‘Public folder sharing’. As well, go down the page a short way and make sure ‘Password protected sharing’ is turned off. This is a leap of faith that your network is secure. Now to the XP computer. Open My Computer, and look for the Shared folder. There may be folders in there already, but, if not, find and drag to that folder any other folders you want to share. Typically, this could include any or all of Music, Video, Pictures and Documents. Depending whether you want to work Win7->XP, XP->Win7, or both ways, you now need to map the network drives. Let’s assume you want to work both ways. In Windows 7, right click on the ‘Computer’ icon on your desktop, and read down a line or two to find ‘Map network drive…’ and click it. You need to type in the path to your shared XP folder. This will include the name of your XP computer (eg, ‘XPMain’) and the folder you want to share (eg, ‘documents’) using a style like ‘\\XPMain\documents’ [[image: W7_xp3.jpg|center|450 px]] Nearly the same thing goes when looking at files on the Windows 7 computer from the XP computer. The difference this time is the security setting on the Windows 7 folders. On the Windows 7 computer, locate the folder(s) you want to share. For each of them, right-click on the folder and select ‘Properties’. Click the Security tab, and then the Edit button. Click Add, then in the object names box, type ‘Everyone’ and click ‘OK’. This new entry will appear in the upper box, probably just above SYSTEM. When you have added the network folder(s), they will appear in your Windows Explorer, something like this: [[image: W7_xp4.jpg|center]] That’s how you would access whatever is in the shared folder (‘documents’) on the remote computer (‘megan’) which the computer sees as drive Z: ---- This is a fairly basic explanation. There is a video tutorial which discusses sharing between Windows 7, Vista and XP online at http://windows.microsoft.com/en-AU/windows7/Networking-home-computers-running-different-versions-of-Windows [[Category:Technical Info]] 41ae992d698824c87f930508887d1223fda35e58 6 14 25 2012-07-28T05:56:19Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 26 25 2012-07-28T06:00:59Z Lpb 2 uploaded a new version of "[[File:W7 xp1.jpg]]" wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 35 26 2012-07-29T02:41:01Z Lpb 2 uploaded a new version of "[[File:W7 xp1.jpg]]" wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 36 35 2012-07-29T03:52:38Z Lpb 2 uploaded a new version of "[[File:W7 xp1.jpg]]" wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 37 36 2012-07-29T04:27:39Z Lpb 2 uploaded a new version of "[[File:W7 xp1.jpg]]" wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 48 37 2012-07-29T09:18:46Z Lpb 2 uploaded a new version of "[[File:W7 xp1.jpg]]" wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 15 28 2012-07-28T06:06:14Z Lpb 2 Initial page copied from TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : == Enable External Video Output in the BIOS == *power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode. On a Dell, for example, press F2 at start-up. *find any options for external video output. Not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level. Note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. *ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" *Save, then exit Setup == Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card == *note that this is done at Operating System level. If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. *typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent **if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that ***a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display ***proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD *it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices **most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. **the Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. **the Training Room projector, for example, does not handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: ***resolution 1024 x 768 ***vertical refresh rate 60 Hz **the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. *there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" **within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays * Save the settings and exit Control Panel. == Use External Power Supply == *the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available **if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods == Activate Output to External Display/Projector == *on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination and can be done at any time after the notebook has booted. Continuing with the Dell example, the combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8. Each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: **internal LCD only **external display only **internal LCD plus external display *note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. == Repeat Step 2 for other Operating Systems == *step 2 is the only setting which is Operating System dependent *step 2 may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. 1. It has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: **try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. **if so, then revisit "Control Panel" at step 2 above and check that the settings for the second display are as above. **in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows ***with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario 2. The cable which connects the projector to a notebook has a VGA connector only. Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 23:24, 6 February 2010 (UTC) Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : == Enable External Video Output in the BIOS == *power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode. On a Dell, for example, press F2 at start-up. *find any options for external video output. Not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level. Note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. *ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" *Save, then exit Setup == Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card == *note that this is done at Operating System level. If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. *typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent **if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that ***a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display ***proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD *it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices **most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. **the Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. **the Training Room projector, for example, does not handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: ***resolution 1024 x 768 ***vertical refresh rate 60 Hz **the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. *there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" **within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays * Save the settings and exit Control Panel. == Use External Power Supply == *the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available **if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods == Activate Output to External Display/Projector == *on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination and can be done at any time after the notebook has booted. Continuing with the Dell example, the combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8. Each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: **internal LCD only **external display only **internal LCD plus external display *note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. == Repeat Step 2 for other Operating Systems == *step 2 is the only setting which is Operating System dependent *step 2 may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. 1. It has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: **try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. **if so, then revisit "Control Panel" at step 2 above and check that the settings for the second display are as above. **in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows ***with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario 2. The cable which connects the projector to a notebook has a VGA connector only. Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 23:24, 6 February 2010 (UTC) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7ca5608a1500023f6ffcca50a901d7e4c0a731e8 0 16 29 2012-07-28T06:07:30Z Lpb 2 Initial page copied from TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' CD/DVD. The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems *; <span style="color:#ff9933;">those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two</span> ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== A common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#ff9933;">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#009600;">Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". Popular burner software Nero and Deepburner have this option. If in doubt, get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that. It makes the operation foolproof, because its '''only''' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD. In Windows 7, locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options - click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD. To be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box.</span> |} dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media (most burner software will cope with this). Doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. ===Booting from CD/DVD=== Booting from CD/DVD drives is disabled, by default, on many computers as a precaution against malware. On modern PC it can be temporarily selected by pressing a key (usually F11, but sometimes F12) at boot. Then select "CDROM" from the menu presented. --[[Category:Technical Info]] 15590ace2e1c6a28f069248b681a240af53197fc 0 17 30 2012-07-28T06:09:16Z Lpb 2 Initial page copied from TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is the printing sub-system which is generally used in Unix-like OS (Linux, Mac OSX etc). One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Windows 7 *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. === Limitations with Windows OS === CUPS is not universally available for Windows and its use can be more complicated in that environment: ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 networks having mixed Windows and Unix-like OS will additionally require SAMBA software, on the Unix-like side, to cope with the different network used in Windows. Use of SAMBA is not covered here === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to the LAN, any computer having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached *it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working. [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) *if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog *which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *as of late 2011 this can be a transitional issue. Earlier releases of CUPS expected the job to be transferred as a PS (postscript) file. Macs now transfer it as a PDF file, which provides much greater functionality and Linux is following suit, but not all Linuxes have yet migrated. Servers will accept only the file type for which they are compiled. **for maximum interoperability, use a distribution which does accept print jobs in the form of PDF files on the server. **Current releases of ''Fedora, openSUSE & Ubuntu'' already do. **a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether an open source driver is now available or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 04:26, 21 April 2012 (UTC) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 77a5ec3dc95520c85785d2740f1e7c3395484c99 0 18 32 2012-07-28T06:11:20Z Lpb 2 Initial page copied from TIP Wiki wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Netbooks that are pre-installed with Linux are still available from specialist retailers. The price, availability and configuration might not be attractive. A plethora of suggestions will be found on the Internet for installing Linux on popular netbooks, that come with Windows XP/7 pre-installed. These procedures are provided as a convenient summary for our members and outline our experience with this process. == Caveats == === No Warranty === These procedures are provided in the hope that they may be useful, but with absolutely no warranty whatsoever Note, in particular, that: *if a computer is to be returned for service under supplier's warranty conditions then it may be necesary to restore the software to that which was pre-installed by the supplier *the market for second-hand netbooks not having Windows pre-installed is very limited It is not feasible, in a brief HOWTO, to cover the idiosyncracies of all models from all manufacturers. *the following procedures are know to be successful with various common models *but might not be successful with some obscure models See ''Prerequites'' below for suggested precautions. === Macbooks === The procedures, described herein, are '''not''' directly applicable to netbooks and other computers that are pre-installed with MacOS, which uses different firmware. Although it is possible to install specially compiled Linux on those devices, advice should be sought in an Apple forum. === Windows 8 Devices === All Windows 8 devices have a function in firmware that prevents other Operating Systems from booting. Consequently, although the options for creating space for Linux, described herein, will probably complete those might be to no avail. == Prequisites == These prerequisites are recommended for all ''Options'' outlined below, including the '''zero option''' #Boot to Windows and use the inbuilt utility to '''burn''' at least one copy of the recovery DVD\ #*supplier's guideline is that this be done at the '''first''' use of Windows on the netbook #**if done at a later stage, the DVD may not be identical to the original installation #ensure that you have an up-to-date backup, on external media, of any data within the Windows system == Options == === Overwrite Windows === #are you certain ? #so - you have done ''Prequisites'' above #all of the other ''Options'' below are beyond your skill/resources #are you '''still''' certain ? === Replace Hard Disk Drive === Argueably the most reliable way of retaining an unchanged Windows intallation, however: *requires substantial dissassembly of most netbooks, which is relatively difficult === Use USB HDD/SSD === Advantages *relatively quick solution *no change to installed Windows system Disadvantages *cost *toting a portable HDD somewhat defeats the purpose of a netbook *booting can be unreliable **must always use same USB socket **presence of other USB storage devices can prevent booting === Create Free Space on Existing Drive === ==== Gather Tools ==== #Software utiilities will be required to shrink at least one existing partition. A recent release of ''gparted'' is recommended and the most conventient way of obtaing this is on a PartedMagic or SystemrescueCD CD. #Few netbooks have CD/DVD readers. It will be necessary to either: #*borrow or purchase a USB CD/DVD drive or #*make a bootable USB memory device containing the utility software ==== Additional Backups (Optional) ==== #use "dd" to make an image of the unmounted HDD to a file on an external/network drive #use "clonezilla" or similar to clone either: #*entire HDD #*key partitions ==== Preliminaries ==== #Boot the netbook to Windows and then from the Control Panel: #*disable virtual RAM (swapper.exe/dat) #**? is there any such thing under Win 7 #*make a hard-copy note of the total size of the C: drive #*if the netbook has had more than trivial use with Windows, then '''de-fragment''' the entire C: drive #**be aware that this might take''' many''' hours ==== Count Existing Partitions ==== Case - 3 or fewer #Boot the netbook to the USB device containing the utility software #use gparted to shrink the Windows C: drive, to the extent desired #*this will usually be the largest partition, but will not be /dev/sda1 on all netbooks #*invariably NTFS filesystem #*cross-check with the size of the C: drive noted earlier Case - 4 Partitions #try your luck with gparted, as above - ''yes really'' #if after shrinking C: gparted is unable to create extra partition(s) then you will need to delete '''one''' pre-existing partition #*the '''only''' candidate is the "manufacturer's crud" partition, that contains optional utilities, games and other "freeware" === Don't Proceed (Zero Option) === If uncertain of your ability to compete one of the above options, other options include: #don't proceed #seek assistance #purchase separate hardware for a portable Linux system #*netbook having Linux pre-installed #*tablet computer, most of which have Linux/Android pre-installed, although the functionality is somewhat different from a netbook. == Laptops == A better option with Laptops can be to remove the original HDD/SSD and store it in a safe place. This procedure can readily be done by an end-user in most cases. Then install a replacement storage drive for use with Linux. Alternatively, the above procedures can be implemented == Desktops == Dual-booting Windows and Linux from the same storage device has many limitations including. *Windows continually overwriting LInux bootloader *configuration of bootloader is more complicated *choices for disk partitioning are constrained Better solutions for recent desktop computers are: *in the case of PC having Windows pre-installed, purchase and install a second HDD for exclusive use with Linux '''as well as''' a Linux bootloader **first check that the PC '''can''' boot a second HDD - this is usually selected via key F11/F12 at POST stage *get a generic PC, having no pre-installed software, assembled by a computer shop *purchase a brand-name PC, having no pre-installed software. The best known example is HP Proliant Microservers --[[Category:Technical Info]] 42d173cfad1e5dd572dd064203418346c5dc85d5 8 19 38 2012-07-29T05:12:22Z Pcug info 1 Add links to PCUH main site wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** News and Notices|News ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|randompage ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 66157e094aabcaca083352809ed7b6399e0fed5f 39 38 2012-07-29T05:14:10Z Pcug info 1 wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** News and Notices|News and Notices ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|randompage ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 833eb94746794001baa92c4464dcafcbc8f87f9c 40 39 2012-07-29T05:18:41Z Lpb 2 Add link to TIP wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Home ** News and Notices|News and Notices ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|randompage ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES bdea3df6d4ee702ed392c0347f808d5b70437fb2 6 20 41 2012-07-29T05:55:39Z Jeremyb 4 Rainbow toad wikitext text/x-wiki Rainbow toad c34eb2f8c7a5413d71fc9602ba31e81a6660674f 46 41 2012-07-29T06:19:46Z Jeremyb 4 uploaded a new version of "[[File:Borneo rainbow toad.jpg]]":&#32;Test 2 wikitext text/x-wiki Rainbow toad c34eb2f8c7a5413d71fc9602ba31e81a6660674f 47 46 2012-07-29T06:22:17Z Jeremyb 4 uploaded a new version of "[[File:Borneo rainbow toad.jpg]]":&#32;Test 3 wikitext text/x-wiki Rainbow toad c34eb2f8c7a5413d71fc9602ba31e81a6660674f 6 21 49 2012-07-29T09:30:33Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 22 50 2012-07-29T09:38:10Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 23 51 2012-07-29T09:38:34Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 24 52 2012-07-29T09:48:35Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 25 53 2012-07-29T09:49:00Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 26 54 2012-07-29T09:49:28Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 27 55 2012-07-29T09:50:01Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 6 56 45 2012-07-29T10:17:07Z Lpb 2 Some suggested formatting wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. == ASCCA == ; 2012 : add links to this years issues here == APCUG == ; 2012 : add links to this years issues here Please add more content here! 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Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] b8d0de8848051db006b117c5a405d868e6c8722b 58 57 2012-07-29T10:30:46Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. == ASCCA == ; 2012 : add links to this years issues here == APCUG == Newsletters from the ''Association of Computer User Groups'' ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG1207.pdf Jul] add more links to this years issues here Please add more content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] d40b01da4616b6ac27654f23db5301b4ac2bb27d 59 58 2012-07-29T10:34:34Z Lpb 2 Add link to ASCCA_Jun12.pdf wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. == ASCCA == ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun] add links to this years issues here == APCUG == Newsletters from the ''Association of Computer User Groups'' ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG1207.pdf Jul] add more links to this years issues here Please add more content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] f4dbbfa697e64cf7279e132e38be32f9b20477e2 60 59 2012-07-29T10:35:34Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun] add links to this years issues here == APCUG == Newsletters from the ''Association of Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG1207.pdf Jul] add more links to this years issues here Please add more content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] c2be72cc97b75ceb6cf5a2f9b87152c12df8e2d0 61 60 2012-07-29T10:37:17Z Lpb 2 Add note on links to secure area. wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login again to access these. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun] add links to this years issues here == APCUG == Newsletters from the ''Association of Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG1207.pdf Jul] add more links to this years issues here Please add more content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 9bdb49035b92f346d8efce622b333318558002b4 4 28 62 2012-07-29T13:35:09Z Lpb 2 Create with link to PCUG Privacy Policy wikitext text/x-wiki Please refer to the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-privacy-policy/ PCUG Privacy Policy] aa9ae5f0b33270cab927ed0d63527d729cf88caf 4 29 63 2012-07-29T13:37:50Z Lpb 2 Initial creation. wikitext text/x-wiki The information and views expressed in pages on this site are those of the members who provided them, and are not necessarily endorsed by the PCUG. 9f041eb785fd4714688264b0956c9b168d7871ee 4 30 64 2012-07-29T13:38:32Z Lpb 2 Initial creation. wikitext text/x-wiki This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, including current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. 19740f50b6bc1c5695a6945b2ce720a9e940bf11 2 31 65 2012-07-29T13:39:39Z Lpb 2 Initial creation. wikitext text/x-wiki [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer guru, science fiction fan, dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the PCUG. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ homepage] for more details. 5055c854f8b9f48642433c4a3e76e925d26c1606 80 65 2012-07-30T05:08:32Z Lpb 2 Add working on section & link to getting started editing page wikitext text/x-wiki [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] 3ed794de61e06d660a925e5d0190ae6be53d3573 100 80 2012-07-30T13:01:31Z Lpb 2 add Wiki Skins link wikitext text/x-wiki [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[Wiki Skins]] cb1b3f594bb75c92c7a80ec3da1a428e13f4dfa7 6 32 66 2012-07-29T13:40:00Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 3 33 67 2012-07-29T13:40:46Z Lpb 2 Initial creation. wikitext text/x-wiki You mean you '''really''' want to talk to me?!?!?! 3bf77b616a5af8828646b9a5ebfd6e132fa233ce 8 19 68 40 2012-07-29T13:48:05Z Lpb 2 Random Page -> Feeling Lucky? wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Home ** News and Notices|News and Notices ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 079c397efa4239f894e882bfc05ea4ed60df5c27 69 68 2012-07-30T00:08:59Z Lpb 2 Add Calendar link wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 9eef1af45597bfb5f6636c69d1a54e3afa638efd 70 69 2012-07-30T00:09:57Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Home ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES d41dac8ffac3328ef712807d2461790de011a5c9 71 70 2012-07-30T00:10:35Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 69ad4bf883c9c4da54d8d89baca00effa63c7c96 12 3 72 3 2012-07-30T00:50:56Z Lpb 2 Add link to Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet wikitext text/x-wiki For information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] 36d2dbc646459f879abaa1134ff715fdad47380a 12 2 73 2 2012-07-30T00:51:05Z Lpb 2 Add link to Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet wikitext text/x-wiki For information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] 36d2dbc646459f879abaa1134ff715fdad47380a 0 7 74 34 2012-07-30T02:23:40Z Lpb 2 new link to Win7 Snipping Tool wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== <br> <br> ==== Apple ==== <br> <br> ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] <br> ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== <br> ==== Web ==== <br> <br> ==== Wikis ==== <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] <br> ==== Printers ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| <br> <br> |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 203dc65dd9031d784407f5426e9ea810af446655 76 74 2012-07-30T02:30:33Z Lpb 2 add link to Cleaning Printheads wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== <br> <br> ==== Apple ==== <br> <br> ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] <br> ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== <br> ==== Web ==== <br> <br> ==== Wikis ==== <br> |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] <br> ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| <br> <br> |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 4972e67e2a1c01af0c31caa4ffb016e3ce820a56 94 76 2012-07-30T07:56:32Z Lpb 2 Add link to my new Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages guide wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== <br> <br> ==== Apple ==== <br> <br> ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] <br> ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== <br> ==== Web ==== <br> <br> ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] <br> ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| <br> <br> |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 4697417e91bd122fdecdc164a9780abe746f88cb 95 94 2012-07-30T07:58:52Z Lpb 2 Tweak table format wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * * ==== Apple ==== * * ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] d850668c85a8f5421b2df044ceb22c21b3accfac 0 34 75 2012-07-30T02:28:18Z Lpb 2 Initial page, taken from Jeff's suggested HowTos doc wikitext text/x-wiki Here are the features I like about the Windows 7 Snipping Tool as detailed in “Windows 7 Bible”. I would be interested if other programs offer any feature that would warrant a change. Otherwise for me, “if on a good thing, stick to it”. # If you have Windows 7 you already have Snipping Tools installed ready to use. # Easy to use. I have put a shortcut icon on my bottom Internet Explorer toolbar and click on it if I want a snapshot of something on my monitor screen. Then #* Click the arrow on the New button Free Form, Rectangular, Window or Full-Screen Snip for the nature of the snapshot. #* Specify the area of the screen you want to clip by dragging a rectangle or circle around the area you want to snip for Freeform or Rectangular Snip, click anywhere in the window you want to snip for Window Snip or if you choose Full Screen Snip the entire screen is snipped automatically. # With the snapshot in place, you can use the Pen tool to draw on the picture defining your own pen colour, thickness and tip. # The Highlighter tool to highlight an area in yellow. # The snapshot can be saved as a file with format *.JPG, *.PNG, *. GIF or *.MPH. # Option to Always Copy Snips to the Clipboard allows the snip to be cipied direct into an open document by Ctrl+V. # If you use Windows Live Mail or a similar compatible e-mail client you can email the snip directly from the program as I have done to CnC with this message in response to the recent email from Lindsay Graham on this topic. -- jeffmeg suggestion 18/Jul/12 -- [[Category:Technical Info]] c1842a1d4a8671d822c5b4408bbd6463d0227275 78 75 2012-07-30T03:30:18Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki Here are the features I like about the Windows 7 Snipping Tool as detailed in “Windows 7 Bible”. I would be interested if other programs offer any feature that would warrant a change. Otherwise for me, “if on a good thing, stick to it”. # If you have Windows 7 you already have Snipping Tools installed ready to use. # Easy to use. I have put a shortcut icon on my bottom Internet Explorer toolbar and click on it if I want a snapshot of something on my monitor screen. Then #* Click the arrow on the New button Free Form, Rectangular, Window or Full-Screen Snip for the nature of the snapshot. #* Specify the area of the screen you want to clip by dragging a rectangle or circle around the area you want to snip for Freeform or Rectangular Snip, click anywhere in the window you want to snip for Window Snip or if you choose Full Screen Snip the entire screen is snipped automatically. # With the snapshot in place, you can use the Pen tool to draw on the picture defining your own pen colour, thickness and tip. # The Highlighter tool to highlight an area in yellow. # The snapshot can be saved as a file with format *.JPG, *.PNG, *. GIF or *.MPH. # Option to Always Copy Snips to the Clipboard allows the snip to be cipied direct into an open document by Ctrl+V. # If you use Windows Live Mail or a similar compatible e-mail client you can email the snip directly from the program as I have done to CnC with this message in response to the recent email from Lindsay Graham on this topic. -- Jeff - 18/Jul/12 -- [[Category:Technical Info]] c8b0838967f134c8f691594dfdfd0790d862d12b 0 35 77 2012-07-30T02:34:25Z Lpb 2 Initial page, taken from Jeff's suggested HowTos doc wikitext text/x-wiki But for those not wishing to replace their printer, do a Google for "Cleaning inkjet printers". I found many things there which would have helped me 3 years ago such as the need to soak heads in a solvent such as isopropyl alcohol (available from [http://www.dse.com.au/cgi-bin/dse.storefront Dick Smith] at $7.99 for a 250 ml bottle for of ISO PRO Cleaner Pump Spray), for possibly about 4 days www.weeno.com. A more powerful solvent "Print Head Clog Buster" from inkmizer is described by [http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/article_pages/inkjet_cleaning.html], again requiring soaking for possibly several days. Also less drastic alternatives are suggested such as Windex glass cleaner and a 50% ammonia solution. For those interested in more detail I am particularly impressed by [http://www.channelphoto-media.co.uk/html/pigment-or-dye.html] Jeff - 18/Jul/12 -- [[Category:Technical Info]] 49553fbf2f580be89a4564812c2531e990bc6c3d 0 1 79 19 2012-07-30T03:37:09Z Lpb 2 Add under construction note wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>+++ Currently under construction .... please be patient +++</font> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). Use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, or just browse using the links below. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 728394d7d35f7afb5beddd4648cf8fc90bb26572 98 79 2012-07-30T08:08:28Z Lpb 2 Add link to Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>+++ Currently under construction .... please be patient +++</font> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). Use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, or just browse using the links below. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 4ac9a97b59f96294c8d253959842d5c767a924e0 99 98 2012-07-30T12:58:14Z Lpb 2 Nogte about different skin. wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>+++ Currently under construction .... please be patient +++</font> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). Use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, or just browse using the links below. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide. Please note that a different skin is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. f330ffeefcc7886a4986add2ea3d4e2be8f2ef0f 0 36 81 2012-07-30T05:45:21Z Lpb 2 Initial creation. wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == Adding Content to Wiki Pages == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor is not WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a ''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Some Basic Markup == == Adding Images == == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == == Where to Find More Information == For information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] 6682f6e54c42883e3a8a3b05e2a20a99f38beabd 82 81 2012-07-30T06:30:48Z Lpb 2 More content. wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. b70db91f67af39528b313ae75fe0adbf10f4b849 83 82 2012-07-30T06:34:53Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. a6b6bd9154652c7e57101239578c8cfb1f9b36b5 84 83 2012-07-30T06:36:44Z Lpb 2 note about editing just one section wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the ''[Edit]'' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. da885134732e95a634ade4bba5a8dcf2e8858590 85 84 2012-07-30T06:37:16Z Lpb 2 /* To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. 42f2d2e0aa1639891f80bc019295d023116446bd 86 85 2012-07-30T07:08:23Z Lpb 2 First cut at Basic Markup table from Mediawiki Help:Formatting wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! Description ! width=40% | You type ! width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>||== Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>||=== Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>||==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. 5631c93dc39f0a418c1eb86dfd0868bbf58dbee2 87 86 2012-07-30T07:32:54Z Lpb 2 more items in markup table wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! Description ! width=40% | You type ! width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|center|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|center|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|center|frame|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>((option 60px means width 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|center|frame|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>||== Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>||=== Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>||==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. 0dd24aaf6a7c09deda9e48b478c61dd9a9fc5d52 89 87 2012-07-30T07:38:57Z Lpb 2 Tweak image examples in markup table wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! Description ! width=40% | You type ! width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>||== Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>||=== Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>||==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. 5aebc27e497e1292c6b6395e4725adecaa292159 90 89 2012-07-30T07:43:36Z Lpb 2 add note about categories to markup table wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! Description ! width=40% | You type ! width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>||== Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>||=== Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>||==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. baf2e6c02d8ca992370d27cc6d81483e160f6858 91 90 2012-07-30T07:48:59Z Lpb 2 Tweak markup table formatting wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>||== Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>||=== Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>||==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. 899b20d13d151c766d3dfd7a5f31edd6ba0f8292 92 91 2012-07-30T07:50:02Z Lpb 2 /* To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>||== Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>||=== Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>||==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. 2bab6d585a62ec42461a22611d6f47ae35be140b 93 92 2012-07-30T07:53:55Z Lpb 2 fix glitch with headersdemo in Markup Table wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. 72d34a9090810892f48ee2b5a516d1c3715c2477 96 93 2012-07-30T07:59:43Z Lpb 2 Add category tag wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or ''Image:'' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. [[Category:Technical Info]] 24440b591fe154d98f4fe0f4e7fe2c5643c597f9 97 96 2012-07-30T08:03:16Z Lpb 2 Tweak image examples wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. [[Category:Technical Info]] de40bdf528217cad4f554de6f7825f6713ab178c 6 37 88 2012-07-30T07:33:33Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 38 101 2012-07-30T13:13:40Z Lpb 2 Create wiith some notes about skins. wikitext text/x-wiki [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Manual:Skins Skins] are used to customize the look and feel of a wiki. The default skin we use is '''monobook''', which is part of the standard Mediawiki distribution. We have also installed the '''WPtouch''' skin, for mobile/tablet use. This is automatically selected for use when a mobile (eg. android, iPhone/iPad/iPod) device is detected. You can explore alternate skins, and indeed choose another default for yourself (when logged in), by navigating to [[Special:Preferences|my preferences]] (located in the list across the top right of the wiki page), and then selecting the '''Skins''' tab to see and preview available skins. f0490b49ed05954087f73ff43d50db7c94594ac0 103 101 2012-07-30T13:15:18Z Lpb 2 add category tag wikitext text/x-wiki [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Manual:Skins Skins] are used to customize the look and feel of a wiki. The default skin we use is '''monobook''', which is part of the standard Mediawiki distribution. We have also installed the '''WPtouch''' skin, for mobile/tablet use. This is automatically selected for use when a mobile (eg. android, iPhone/iPad/iPod) device is detected. You can explore alternate skins, and indeed choose another default for yourself (when logged in), by navigating to [[Special:Preferences|my preferences]] (located in the list across the top right of the wiki page), and then selecting the '''Skins''' tab to see and preview available skins. [[Category:Technical Info]] 1c675e349c9415a402b2e5f403186eda131d52ab 111 103 2012-07-31T00:27:35Z Lpb 2 add note about using wptouch sin. wikitext text/x-wiki [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Manual:Skins Skins] are used to customize the look and feel of a wiki. The default skin we use is '''monobook''', which is part of the standard Mediawiki distribution. We have also installed the '''WPtouch''' skin, for mobile/tablet use. This is automatically selected for use when a mobile (eg. android, iPhone/iPad/iPod) device is detected. When using this view of the wiki, you can access the Navigation and other administrative functions using the drop-down menu from the arrow on the top right of the wiki's title bar. You can explore alternate skins, and indeed choose another default for yourself (when logged in), by navigating to [[Special:Preferences|my preferences]] (located in the list across the top right of the wiki page), and then selecting the '''Skins''' tab to see and preview available skins. [[Category:Technical Info]] 35cf1378a76997103a43e6d0a5df533951f6a873 0 7 102 95 2012-07-30T13:14:27Z Lpb 2 add Wiki Skins link wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Beginning of 1st column --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Computer Systems</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * * ==== Apple ==== * * ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Internet </h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"> Peripherals</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" ! <h2 style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;">Software</h2> |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 5b6d02ce1459d9c6fddb4c46ed900b50cd4c9bee 117 102 2012-07-31T08:05:06Z Lpb 2 Revise formatting for table of values wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * * ==== Apple ==== * * ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 0eb6fb1a8227641a536cbdf2a1ef95c72b071579 0 1 104 99 2012-07-30T13:17:31Z Lpb 2 /* Members Informing Members */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>+++ Currently under construction .... please be patient +++</font> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). Use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, or just browse using the links below. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. aaa675cdaa7b91393f2b199342f29ee80475f31a 105 104 2012-07-31T00:07:37Z Lpb 2 add link to all pages wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>+++ Currently under construction .... please be patient +++</font> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 0f1c588dbb32fe94ba7b7f67af7e932300dc27e0 113 105 2012-07-31T00:30:15Z Lpb 2 tweak link to guide wording wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>+++ Currently under construction .... please be patient +++</font> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 7a29ad3d040f0615ed8f58dcda4b1e4edb74d950 0 6 106 61 2012-07-31T00:11:56Z Lpb 2 Flip order of newsletters so sorted, minor typo fixes wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login here to access these. == APCUG == Newsletters from the ''Association of Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG1207.pdf Jul] add more links to this years issues here == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun] add more links to this years issues here Please add more content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 84a2d5adc87a635810b7f1deb09d8d3d6cab4c41 121 106 2012-07-31T13:38:49Z Lpb 2 Add link to assorted extra APCUG2 & ASCCA newsletters wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login here to access these. == APCUG == Newsletters from the (American based) ''Association of Personal Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : APCUG Reports: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul]. Please add more content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] cf4e6bd45143d06a25b5ffee77dee37215b6b4e5 122 121 2012-07-31T13:39:23Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == APCUG == Newsletters from the (American based) ''Association of Personal Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : APCUG Reports: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul]. Please add more content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here, grants permission for this. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 4f7ff7db84e4f1229067e560e21e36741252f4fc 123 122 2012-07-31T13:42:42Z Lpb 2 Add note about using secure server if copyright issues. wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == APCUG == Newsletters from the (American based) ''Association of Personal Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : APCUG Reports: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul]. Please add more content here! ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 724afc67fd247c6f2db401500349e174c1ee5556 124 123 2012-08-01T01:39:59Z Lpb 2 add ASCCA_Aug12.pdf wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == APCUG == Newsletters from the (American based) ''Association of Personal Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : APCUG Reports: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug]. Please add more content here! ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 7a91470aaff8a19ba027dd12c36a65480188618a 154 124 2012-08-01T03:47:22Z Lpb 2 add NOOZ sep/dec 11 links wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == APCUG == Newsletters from the (American based) ''Association of Personal Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : APCUG Reports: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug]. Please add more content here! ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 1260857e359d72c7dd484b133ca0a5884ad14bd0 155 154 2012-08-01T03:48:08Z Lpb 2 tweak some wording wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == APCUG == Newsletters from the (American based) ''Association of Personal Computer User Groups'': ; 2012 : APCUG Reports: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug]. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. == Related Pages == [[Category:Newsletters]] 936c227c575b54a4d064c7123ef641f58ebbab1c 0 4 107 5 2012-07-31T00:14:50Z Lpb 2 Add category and link to older news wikitext text/x-wiki '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office closed for Audit - Monday 30 July, 2012'''== While audit is being conducted, the PCUG office will be closed.<br/> Karen (PCUG Office Manager)<br/> =='''Beginners SIG for Thur 26 July, 2012 session cancelled'''== BSIG-ers, Just letting you know that the BSIG session on Thursday 26 July morning at PCUG, 27 Mulley St, Holder has been CANCELLED due to unforeseen circumstances. The session scheduled Thursday 9 August at PCUG will progress as usual.<br/> Eleanor (BSig Coordinator)<br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == [[Category:News and Notices]] 6db0b6e8778df69b7644ee94350b5917d6a08b47 109 107 2012-07-31T00:20:01Z Lpb 2 add text to Older News and Notices section wikitext text/x-wiki '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office closed for Audit - Monday 30 July, 2012'''== While audit is being conducted, the PCUG office will be closed.<br/> Karen (PCUG Office Manager)<br/> =='''Beginners SIG for Thur 26 July, 2012 session cancelled'''== BSIG-ers, Just letting you know that the BSIG session on Thursday 26 July morning at PCUG, 27 Mulley St, Holder has been CANCELLED due to unforeseen circumstances. The session scheduled Thursday 9 August at PCUG will progress as usual.<br/> Eleanor (BSig Coordinator)<br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 432aa1aaecdc1972ba7b58416c484c401b77fc0a 0 39 108 2012-07-31T00:18:19Z Lpb 2 Create this page for archival use wikitext text/x-wiki ; News and Notices from 2012 : relating to the [http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]. ''move older items from the main [[News_and_Notices]] page here when it starts getting too full''! [[Category:News and Notices]] 6d964c485a47857b61dc2f82962f61139a4eba9a 14 40 110 2012-07-31T00:21:08Z Lpb 2 create page with brief description wikitext text/x-wiki Index of pages in the News and Notices category. 7d9baf9bb56accb92198b02095ac973b07a7aef1 12 2 112 73 2012-07-31T00:29:29Z Lpb 2 add link to getting started guide. wikitext text/x-wiki If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. For more information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] fc40c766122110ab0c343596738c7e33305029a0 0 36 114 97 2012-07-31T00:36:42Z Lpb 2 add sig wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] b0941840884e5ace1651365f9a5ef208ea02ea69 115 114 2012-07-31T00:42:52Z Lpb 2 add more markup table formatting wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve conflicting updates. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when they save their version, some changes can be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] 9231d65b6916257440199fc318f744c456330457 116 115 2012-07-31T03:02:12Z Lpb 2 refine notes on edit conflict wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no ''markup''&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] 732ae1ccc7b546d55fde42a452008c6272279a41 2 31 118 100 2012-07-31T08:12:16Z Lpb 2 Play with table formatting wikitext text/x-wiki [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[Wiki Skins]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} 27ab462fde5c6e3b403413c3815bf75663fef5f6 119 118 2012-07-31T08:13:00Z Lpb 2 Suppress ToC wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[Wiki Skins]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} 792b12bed745af608021f37fab9d7efa4dd100e7 12 3 120 72 2012-07-31T12:56:39Z Lpb 2 Add link to Getting Started guide. wikitext text/x-wiki If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. For more information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] fc40c766122110ab0c343596738c7e33305029a0 8 19 125 71 2012-08-01T02:28:56Z Lpb 2 Use older (cleaner) calendar page wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 1e7a68e30d01625944af2bdc6ae7c10c41c64c80 145 125 2012-08-01T03:38:40Z Lpb 2 Add extra nav items for main areas on site wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description *** News and Notices|News and Notices *** Activities and Opportunities|Activities and Opportunities *** Newsletters|Newsletters *** Technical Info|Technical Info ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES e469175d07d10c697cbd538e7b8d98650d7152a8 146 145 2012-08-01T03:39:23Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** News and Notices|News and Notices ** Activities and Opportunities|Activities/Opportunities ** Newsletters|Newsletters ** Technical Info|Technical Info ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 6ca3d72335417c2f76e5e5e1e20eba542d668857 148 146 2012-08-01T03:40:10Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** News and Notices|- News and Notices ** Activities and Opportunities|- Activities/Opportunities ** Newsletters|- Newsletters ** Technical Info|- Technical Info ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES d18ec869e31f9187ec1429a541cdff77ccf235dc 149 148 2012-08-01T03:40:33Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** News and Notices|News and Notices ** Activities and Opportunities|Activities/Opportunities ** Newsletters|Newsletters ** Technical Info|Technical Info ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 6ca3d72335417c2f76e5e5e1e20eba542d668857 0 5 126 12 2012-08-01T02:31:34Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. [[[Volunteer Role Descriptions]]] gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 0ac0baac094ffc4285c408d832e98aec85864e90 127 126 2012-08-01T02:32:58Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. === Volunteer Role Descriptions === gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 78830742f154bea0496243ca3341fbae8f38d695 128 127 2012-08-01T02:37:55Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] b7cc8fe404489854bae8e45e7b4f76ee571de45e 129 128 2012-08-01T03:05:13Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === Committee === === Office === === Training === === LAN === === TIP Administration === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 3ed7ed0be3ace19e15630281ca4fae91a98519e6 130 129 2012-08-01T03:15:16Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee]] === === [[Office]] === === [[Training]] === === [[SIGs and Meetings]] === === [[LAN & Centre Equipment]] === === [[TIP Administration]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 2428f4dc546a2887c8c6e8c17667cfb4e34b238b 131 130 2012-08-01T03:18:01Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 96dfe5acb633cc89a3e88b227344e27b18fb69a9 151 131 2012-08-01T03:46:13Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 8a463510dc3ba6d9a0e081362c7047b6e1f94022 152 151 2012-08-01T03:46:29Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 20a7067e993ec1d73f6965b807f89b24ec4dd980 0 42 133 2012-08-01T03:18:56Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "== Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]]" wikitext text/x-wiki == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f9f8104e4153dcdb9524c71015f3bc7a356e9f34 140 133 2012-08-01T03:29:52Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki Volunteering at the PCUG Centre Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our e-help support. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. There are varied opportunities to provide support to the office: - Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help; - Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing, - A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre; - Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements and centre cleaning Main reasons people contact the centre: - renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos - training or media room use & bookings - new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support. - seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can). - open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities. - supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services. How is this achieved? Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. - centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. - cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) - respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations - general supervisory role of members using the centre - ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. - directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. This information has been edited over time by our current volunteer staffers. Any feedback is incorporated into the current information. While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. Information sessions are ongoing. They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) – so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. We would like to welcome you to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 773e5e10241bbb559b383edb22c61ff57dc4e3c0 141 140 2012-08-01T03:32:04Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Volunteering at the PCUG Centre''' Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our e-help support. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. '''There are varied opportunities to provide support to the office:''' - Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help; - Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing, - A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre; - Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements and centre cleaning '''Main reasons people contact the centre:''' - renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos - training or media room use & bookings - new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support. - seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can). - open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities. - supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services. '''How is this achieved?''' Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. - centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. - cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) - respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations - general supervisory role of members using the centre - ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. - directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. '''What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above?''' The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. This information has been edited over time by our current volunteer staffers. Any feedback is incorporated into the current information. While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. Information sessions are ongoing. They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) – so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. We would like to welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] b3c0b7f81b10a3ee44db546cf90695906a2943b8 142 141 2012-08-01T03:36:28Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our e-help support. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == There are varied opportunities to provide support to the office == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == - renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> - training or media room use & bookings<br/> - new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> - seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> - open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> - supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. - centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. - cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) - respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations - general supervisory role of members using the centre - ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. - directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. This information has been edited over time by our current volunteer staffers. Any feedback is incorporated into the current information. While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. Information sessions are ongoing. They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) – so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. We would like to welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 4ce8c3f5afa4b07d22265baa6af411210c854d45 143 142 2012-08-01T03:37:59Z Offcmngr 6 /* Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == There are varied opportunities to provide support to the office == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == - renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> - training or media room use & bookings<br/> - new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> - seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> - open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> - supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. - centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. - cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) - respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations - general supervisory role of members using the centre - ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. - directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. This information has been edited over time by our current volunteer staffers. Any feedback is incorporated into the current information. While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. Information sessions are ongoing. They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) – so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. We would like to welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 0a3ed748f2e6260b66f114267af2f7cb7ef6f0a6 0 44 135 2012-08-01T03:19:39Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "== Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]]" wikitext text/x-wiki == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f9f8104e4153dcdb9524c71015f3bc7a356e9f34 0 46 137 2012-08-01T03:24:23Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "== Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]]" wikitext text/x-wiki == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f9f8104e4153dcdb9524c71015f3bc7a356e9f34 0 47 144 2012-08-01T03:38:40Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "m" wikitext text/x-wiki m 6b0d31c0d563223024da45691584643ac78c96e8 147 144 2012-08-01T03:39:42Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f9f8104e4153dcdb9524c71015f3bc7a356e9f34 150 147 2012-08-01T03:43:56Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki E-help follows the same principles as providing member assistance at the centre, but done from home, using internet, & remote access to phone and other systems for the provision of providing member support to members. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 94be5e2bf4e359ee95381382d12cd2d2b238a56c 0 48 153 2012-08-01T03:46:42Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "== Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]]" wikitext text/x-wiki == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f9f8104e4153dcdb9524c71015f3bc7a356e9f34 0 48 156 153 2012-08-01T03:56:01Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki An overview of help procedures are outlined on the main PCUG [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] site in support of "Users Helping Users" These procedures are supported by members who have skill, and willingness to support == Help Email Group == == Home Installation == == Referral to Members who have that skill == == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 7aad035a984545e12182a581245183fd223f6cc2 157 156 2012-08-01T03:57:16Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki An overview of help procedures are outlined on the main PCUG [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] site in support of "Users Helping Users" <br/> These procedures are supported by members who have skill, and a willingness share that skill. <br/> == Help Email Group == == Home Installation == == Referral to Members who have that skill == == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 050f19014ee1296876d9e71b78719933495b1698 159 157 2012-08-01T04:11:35Z Offcmngr 6 /* Referral to Members who have that skill */ wikitext text/x-wiki An overview of help procedures are outlined on the main PCUG [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] site in support of "Users Helping Users" <br/> These procedures are supported by members who have skill, and a willingness share that skill. <br/> == Help Email Group == == Home Installation == == Referral to Members who have that skill == *Members are invited to register skills they possess with the PCUG Office.<br/> *Details of contact restrictions, etc are recorded and used per the pre-advised preferences of the member. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 0057b9683541fa22debfebcef12d011490955e0f 160 159 2012-08-01T04:16:44Z Offcmngr 6 /* Help Email Group */ wikitext text/x-wiki An overview of help procedures are outlined on the main PCUG [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] site in support of "Users Helping Users" <br/> These procedures are supported by members who have skill, and a willingness share that skill. <br/> == Help Email Group == * this email list receives technical help queries from members<br/> * the list is monitored by members with a variety of skills, whose collective knowledge is efficient in achieving resolution of the issue. * interested members may subscribe to the list<br/> == Home Installation == == Referral to Members who have that skill == *Members are invited to register skills they possess with the PCUG Office.<br/> *Details of contact restrictions, etc are recorded and used per the pre-advised preferences of the member. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 0e7025fa1b2dfb9897eeb397bb9e8d7b66fbead9 161 160 2012-08-01T04:19:55Z Offcmngr 6 /* Home Installation */ wikitext text/x-wiki An overview of help procedures are outlined on the main PCUG [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] site in support of "Users Helping Users" <br/> These procedures are supported by members who have skill, and a willingness share that skill. <br/> == Help Email Group == * this email list receives technical help queries from members<br/> * the list is monitored by members with a variety of skills, whose collective knowledge is efficient in achieving resolution of the issue. * interested members may subscribe to the list<br/> == Home Installation == * is the provision of techical support in the home via arrangement after other avenues of support have been exhausted. == Referral to Members who have that skill == *Members are invited to register skills they possess with the PCUG Office.<br/> *Details of contact restrictions, etc are recorded and used per the pre-advised preferences of the member. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] c28e609b4f9112336191eeae787f2c4ba719afe2 196 161 2012-08-01T06:03:57Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki An overview of help procedures are outlined on the main PCUG [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] site in support of "Users Helping Users" <br/> These procedures are supported by members who have skill, and a willingness share that skill. <br/> == Help Email Group == * this email list receives technical help queries from members<br/> * the list is monitored by members with a variety of skills, whose collective knowledge is efficient in achieving resolution of the issue. * interested members may subscribe to the list<br/> == Home Installation == * is the provision of techical support in the home via arrangement after other avenues of support have been exhausted. == Referral to Members who have that skill == *Members are invited to register skills they possess with the PCUG Office.<br/> *Details of contact restrictions, etc are recorded and used per the pre-advised preferences of the member. ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] e3ed8751515cb63e8b5de204dcca377fa6d9c440 0 6 158 155 2012-08-01T03:57:47Z Lpb 2 Add web links to org homes wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == APCUG == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == ASCCA == Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug]. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] e00db4da059a67d60fc4b4d643a93427a3f153c4 0 5 167 152 2012-08-01T04:39:18Z Offcmngr 6 /* Training Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === * Training Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 2df0e603b6c44c4c9b1b98ddef813c8b07e99f3a 183 167 2012-08-01T05:03:18Z Offcmngr 6 /* Committee Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === * Training Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] e075995fd0163ef4c1c98ad97ce1205c67171310 184 183 2012-08-01T05:03:58Z Offcmngr 6 /* Office Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements Centre Cleaning === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === * Training Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 817d923e88961292ac9533f186a63af31ece26b4 185 184 2012-08-01T05:04:45Z Offcmngr 6 /* Office Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === * Training Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] b3885ab89de1da34638729a6078dfcc2604e0714 186 185 2012-08-01T05:05:36Z Offcmngr 6 /* SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === * Training Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 45571b07b3cfce3efb34a4716aa0e982932ae947 187 186 2012-08-01T05:06:36Z Offcmngr 6 /* LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === * Training Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 2b1457f62b618a406e2a0c3faa1f1e0e7400fd0d 188 187 2012-08-01T05:09:33Z Offcmngr 6 /* Help & Assistance */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Training Role Descriptions]] === * Training Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 69f9a9af36a2f9da36cb6d36dfbc6e52aede37ee 189 188 2012-08-01T05:12:06Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 870bf3dad4f95be91f28d0eaac4ea11edd58fc3a 191 189 2012-08-01T05:14:18Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is intended to provide information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. Please add content here! Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] fefea3ad23e40f2a7399292fdbae282277c6b40f 192 191 2012-08-01T05:54:01Z Lpb 2 Tweak some wording & reorder items. wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 5dc05f8d9ec69ad524645dbb7cbc73b994ab8f31 215 192 2012-08-04T06:36:34Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill and enthusiasm. == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 5d271d2ad9e8829aa66ee80edfa32dc3b0e3edf0 0 42 168 143 2012-08-01T04:41:54Z Offcmngr 6 /* Main reasons people contact the centre */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == There are varied opportunities to provide support to the office == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. - centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. - cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) - respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations - general supervisory role of members using the centre - ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. - directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. This information has been edited over time by our current volunteer staffers. Any feedback is incorporated into the current information. While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. Information sessions are ongoing. They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) – so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. We would like to welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] d21bac29f9539e294c1e0e60ecb9df59b337995a 169 168 2012-08-01T04:43:43Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to) == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. - centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. - cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) - respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations - general supervisory role of members using the centre - ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. - directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. This information has been edited over time by our current volunteer staffers. Any feedback is incorporated into the current information. While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. Information sessions are ongoing. They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) – so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. We would like to welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 7297f45f5b169786f6699c85da359a4f4bd6085a 170 169 2012-08-01T04:43:58Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. - centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. - cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) - respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations - general supervisory role of members using the centre - ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. - directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. This information has been edited over time by our current volunteer staffers. Any feedback is incorporated into the current information. While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. Information sessions are ongoing. They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) – so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. We would like to welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 5f47eb0d9aef9ec80b525420ec1123bd76b04c54 171 170 2012-08-01T04:46:05Z Offcmngr 6 /* How is this achieved? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. This information has been edited over time by our current volunteer staffers. Any feedback is incorporated into the current information. While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. Information sessions are ongoing. They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) – so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. We would like to welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 183b1e8dd696194e0f011be44d94f0b525d7be09 172 171 2012-08-01T04:50:30Z Offcmngr 6 /* What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. We would like to welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. Please contact us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 9812e32a2a83c9e61611f5f808acda0eb7a4333b 173 172 2012-08-01T04:53:05Z Offcmngr 6 /* What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback * Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-formus with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 79c812cc9a3754af43cea1ac1953c28fab631150 174 173 2012-08-01T04:53:37Z Offcmngr 6 /* What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback * Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 2d2e03474ad92763080b31f6d86c83d8dba336eb 175 174 2012-08-01T04:54:01Z Offcmngr 6 /* What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 09707a347f2ba29a8a0c263a85ef5daf1b1a526b 176 175 2012-08-01T04:54:52Z Offcmngr 6 /* Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === ''content invited'' === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] fdf2d1f0c5d9f78abb2bff29cec2da3c63001e90 177 176 2012-08-01T04:55:21Z Offcmngr 6 /* Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == === Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help === ''content invited'' === Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing === ''content invited'' === A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre === === Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements === === Centre Cleaning === == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] c28b41aab8deab2d7a1ff436b90e2635a05bb415 178 177 2012-08-01T04:56:55Z Offcmngr 6 /* PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles (include, but not limited to): == *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 0f1d6a12cadbc50d7c28592365d64932d0e76eb9 179 178 2012-08-01T04:57:44Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles == *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 1dcd973ff2b450013d978b4fe23ac7c0f37182b0 211 179 2012-08-03T03:35:42Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Centre Roles */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles == *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help<br/r> This typically includes* Open the office, before 10:00am. ** Perform 'start of day' tasks to prepare for the day. ** Answer phone calls from members (inclunding any 101 messages). ** Record in Log Book queries from members and their resolution. ** Update PCUG database and TIP accounts based on payments (cheque, creditcard and cash) received. Record payments in Daily Summary (excel) file. ** Process 'Direct Credit' payments made into PCUG's StGeorge account. ** Update the statistics form during the day. ** Perform 'end of day' tasks after 2:00pm, to finish off the day. *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 002256463287e0e6f3959c1d1f627205a8921e04 212 211 2012-08-03T03:37:23Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Centre Roles */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles == *'''Communication Administration support manning the desk''' for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help<br/r> This typically includes<br/> ** Open the office, before 10:00am. ** Perform 'start of day' tasks to prepare for the day. ** Answer phone calls from members (inclunding any 101 messages). ** Record in Log Book queries from members and their resolution. ** Update PCUG database and TIP accounts based on payments (cheque, creditcard and cash) received. Record payments in Daily Summary (excel) file. ** Process 'Direct Credit' payments made into PCUG's StGeorge account. ** Update the statistics form during the day. ** Perform 'end of day' tasks after 2:00pm, to finish off the day. *'''Background Administration support''', such as data entry, filing *'''A Supervisory role of the Centre''' itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *'''Maintenance of member amenities''', including refreshements *'''Centre Cleaning''' == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] d42a9089ad17df81903fc7d35658c199b2e8d462 213 212 2012-08-03T03:39:25Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Centre Roles */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles == *'''Communication Administration support manning the desk''' for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help<br/r>This typically includes<br/> ** Open the office, before 10:00am. ** Perform 'start of day' tasks to prepare for the day. ** Answer phone calls from members (inclunding any 101 messages). ** Record in Log Book queries from members and their resolution. ** Update PCUG database and TIP accounts based on payments (cheque, creditcard and cash) received. Record payments in Daily Summary (excel) file. ** Process 'Direct Credit' payments made into PCUG's StGeorge account. ** Update the statistics form during the day. ** Perform 'end of day' tasks after 2:00pm, to finish off the day. *'''Background Administration support''', such as data entry, filing *'''A Supervisory role of the Centre''' itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *'''Maintenance of member amenities''', including refreshements *'''Centre Cleaning''' == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] af909749f75b6bc7e8b97a2bfe08b5240ff6953e 0 49 190 2012-08-01T05:12:57Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "== Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]]" wikitext text/x-wiki == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f9f8104e4153dcdb9524c71015f3bc7a356e9f34 0 46 193 137 2012-08-01T06:02:04Z Lpb 2 add very short description wikitext text/x-wiki TIP administrators provide specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services. All TIP admins need to be familiar with the operation and management of the (debian) linux server systems we use, which are hosted in a server room at TransACT House. Particular areas of support include: * accounting (using our own 'home-grown' account management s/w tied to LDAP & radius authentication & authorization servers) * DNS & network configuration * Mail services * Systems management & update * System security * Web services * assorted other server config & management, incl. IRC, News, NTP, SSHD ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 418bd034e70132811772654a991aa2bd9dcf19a5 197 193 2012-08-01T08:19:20Z Lpb 2 + backups wikitext text/x-wiki TIP administrators provide specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services. All TIP admins need to be familiar with the operation and management of the (debian) linux server systems we use, which are hosted in a server room at TransACT House. Particular areas of support include: * accounting (using our own 'home-grown' account management s/w tied to LDAP & radius authentication & authorization servers) * Backup of files & databases on our servers * DNS & network configuration * Mail services * Systems management & update * System security * Web services * assorted other server config & management, incl. IRC, News, NTP, SSHD ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] ad408bd020f18bf753a0122b2231a536cb3bb1e1 198 197 2012-08-01T12:00:19Z Lpb 2 tweak wording wikitext text/x-wiki TIP administrators provide specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services. All TIP admins need to be familiar with the operation and management of the (debian) linux server systems we use, which are hosted in a server room at TransACT House. They should be comfortable with using the unix command-line and with scripting in languages such as perl, php etc. Particular areas of support include: * accounting (using our own 'home-grown' account management s/w tied to LDAP & radius authentication & authorization servers) * Backup of files & databases across our servers using rsync * DNS (bind) & network configuration * Mail (postfix, dovecot) services * Systems management & update * System security * Web (apache) and MySQL database services * assorted other server config & management, incl. IRC, News, NTP, SSHD ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] af6d87bdd3d898a938e6153427da3c56c23e8049 2 31 199 119 2012-08-01T12:03:25Z Lpb 2 work on Android App Recommendations wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[Wiki Skins]] * [[Android App Recommendations]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} 17349d646de72bc8404d7e6c070f98d79b3b3f31 0 50 200 2012-08-01T12:44:34Z Lpb 2 Create page with some initial suggestions. wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] 7c297cbae4aa06287bf836872f55ef4bf6d0c116 202 200 2012-08-01T12:54:04Z Lpb 2 link to www.fbreader.org wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] b1af9c0c83a489949126482b1c3548374c2424c6 0 7 201 117 2012-08-01T12:47:32Z Lpb 2 add Android_App_Recommendations wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * ==== Apple ==== * * ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] eb98b8957b0481e62419119c3d3aff6ca5742655 207 201 2012-08-02T04:58:44Z Lpb 2 Add more iPad/iPhone & S/W recommendations pages wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 2148d7acaf1a788553fb549eb8087d63b5cc9fd3 0 1 203 113 2012-08-01T13:08:17Z Lpb 2 note about supporting initiative wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>+++ Currently under construction .... please be patient +++</font><br/> <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. a6b5c65e92fc84e9a5ffb07dfb9397233597c257 204 203 2012-08-01T13:10:21Z Lpb 2 fiddle wording in intro wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>+++ Currently under construction .... please be patient +++</font><br/> <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. bdf163447f58573d942a33dd419b40fc36925818 206 204 2012-08-02T04:13:39Z Lpb 2 remove under construction message wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. e7861e78b6f217da9f462cf30e08dfcfe1974a4c 214 206 2012-08-03T06:02:27Z Lpb 2 Note about range of possible contributions wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member - just use your normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login - click on the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the '''Technical IT Information''' section, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions, corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 97694983f52bd32c7d4cd243ab5a5ce182f9103d 0 36 205 116 2012-08-01T13:14:54Z Lpb 2 fix error in nowiki example wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no <nowiki>''markup''</nowiki>&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] 37ffc3ff932624e18a859d63b70233d5d3ccfa34 0 51 208 2012-08-02T05:00:26Z Lpb 2 Create skeletal page wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Apple iPad apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Apple Apps Store. == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] 9ab6ba4e14cb92ab7e8cb0a47d54bccc9c671fd2 0 52 209 2012-08-02T05:00:57Z Lpb 2 Create skeletal page wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Apple iPhone/iPod apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Apple Apps Store. == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] 4838122bd624619f10002f62b19275aa4f0d6505 0 53 210 2012-08-02T05:01:40Z Lpb 2 Create skeletal page wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for some interesting programs that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] b4c7bcf63307ddc1c36282b8cfa0026fc66799a3 0 5 216 215 2012-08-04T06:39:21Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm. Please a browse through some of the descriptions of volunteer roles listed below. <br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f1307aae88f98231420263d3c0a558554168e1cc 217 216 2012-08-04T06:39:44Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the descriptions of volunteer roles listed below. <br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 13c04a75e1994b2c3106fff2b1e451607219362c 218 217 2012-08-04T06:41:06Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the descriptions of volunteer roles listed below. <br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] cbffaa9c2bd7df743461cfe646f38e2e325b1270 219 218 2012-08-04T06:48:36Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the descriptions of volunteer roles listed below. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Registering Your Interest to Participate == == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> *Special Interest Groups (SIGs) *Training *Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre *Administration of the TIP Services ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 2c4a5bee5d06c2514900230b5823cf627c44ba25 220 219 2012-08-04T06:50:03Z Krja 9 /* Registering Your Interest to Participate */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the descriptions of volunteer roles listed below. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> *Special Interest Groups (SIGs) *Training *Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre *Administration of the TIP Services ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 37a35189f73a44ecf88cec7ecd59c346cb624da3 221 220 2012-08-04T06:51:56Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the descriptions of volunteer roles listed below. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> *Special Interest Groups (SIGs) *Training *Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre *Administration of the TIP Services == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] d7db0242c12799cd78904183cc3e78458ecbcd66 222 221 2012-08-04T06:54:00Z Krja 9 /* Activities */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the descriptions of volunteer roles listed below. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Support=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 392ba6161aaa5cd5083df6ce4bb2cd963442e1d7 223 222 2012-08-04T06:54:36Z Krja 9 /* Help and Support */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the descriptions of volunteer roles listed below. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[Committee Role Descriptions]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] cae698dee9278393599944e72ef119154d88db5c 224 223 2012-08-04T07:02:26Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committies]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] e81235180adcea4370f7b37edbe653161e5ca728 225 224 2012-08-04T07:03:07Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Committees and Sub-Committies */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f501e14c6c74d64d4b3bc376cb92eeadc26da0c7 227 225 2012-08-04T07:14:44Z Krja 9 /* LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] b22c1aa770c79aff438e04ee35bc0a1d5ebebab3 228 227 2012-08-04T07:15:36Z Krja 9 /* LAN & Centre Equipment Maintenance */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 2e44b78b643e1119a313bf5d94c097bbba1ac0f1 230 228 2012-08-04T07:21:10Z Krja 9 /* SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Volunteer Role Descriptions == gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] b70dc8eac09adb63c408a80c905a45d1ccc7129f 233 230 2012-08-04T07:28:45Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions'''gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 4021acc62bfa397d951d159b43ece03e00fb90c4 234 233 2012-08-04T07:29:14Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> Categories include:<br/> === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Activities == Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 2e4b982fbb28a99a1654949346d0310036973733 235 234 2012-08-04T07:31:09Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 14c60780c12c5697ed579adb76284ceb8aab4e19 236 235 2012-08-04T07:32:55Z Krja 9 /* TIP Administration Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] b1a8a8fbfe351f149bdbdbdd66046736e9467fc6 239 236 2012-08-04T07:36:23Z Krja 9 /* Training & Media Room Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 9cdc1ed142cfd005666265cb1666453d584ea795 243 239 2012-08-04T07:41:21Z Krja 9 /* Administration of the Office & PCUG Centre */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[Office Role Descriptions]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===PCUG Office and Centre Administration=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] d99eb06d0ccb9f5a62072be796c860eb53470cda 244 243 2012-08-04T07:42:07Z Krja 9 /* Office Role Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant Activities of PCUG include:<br/> ===Special Interest Groups (SIGs)=== ===Training Options=== ===PCUG Office and Centre Administration=== ===Administration of the TIP Services=== ===Help and Assistance=== == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] d26fd3d87846176d2596b00e73914861c6295248 247 244 2012-08-04T07:43:55Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG activities and opportunities for participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 3ac75210fe11785524ff33bc9531eeb44169852d 248 247 2012-08-04T07:44:29Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == Participating in Activities and Opportunities == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f6858a7e342b0b1efd86e3428a2a5c9ba681798d 249 248 2012-08-04T07:56:03Z Krja 9 /* Participating in Activities and Opportunities */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> *Code of Ethics *OH&S info & Legislation *Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation *Registering Your Skills ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 4439d6c047cc183fdef5bd468aaa3e88e8f60839 250 249 2012-08-04T07:57:16Z Krja 9 /* About Volunteering */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===OH&S info & Legislation=== ===Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation=== ===Registering Your Skills=== ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 17de21bcff7ca255677077d3176b0b2f17d26818 251 250 2012-08-04T07:58:21Z Krja 9 /* Categories of Activities: */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===OH&S info & Legislation=== ===Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation=== ===Registering Your Skills=== ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 4610e6f68924ad1fee5ad25b42fa4659ca1fc0c3 254 251 2012-08-04T08:10:34Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===OH&S info & Legislation=== ===Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation=== ===Registering Your Skills=== ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] dbff2030927c1e0b6399bcf6b1ee96b79c6e0976 0 54 226 2012-08-04T07:06:04Z Krja 9 Created page with "== PCUG Main Committee == '''An overview of roles may be viewed in the Rules [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/rules]''' *President *Vice President *Treasurer *Secretary …" wikitext text/x-wiki == PCUG Main Committee == '''An overview of roles may be viewed in the Rules [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/rules]''' *President *Vice President *Treasurer *Secretary *General Committee == Sub-committees == *Website Sub-Committee *Internet Sub-Services Committee *PCUG Centre Sub-Committee ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 75c810b41adbceddfb001e4ff0f80cb7d6370d22 252 226 2012-08-04T08:10:11Z Krja 9 moved [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] to [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] wikitext text/x-wiki == PCUG Main Committee == '''An overview of roles may be viewed in the Rules [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/rules]''' *President *Vice President *Treasurer *Secretary *General Committee == Sub-committees == *Website Sub-Committee *Internet Sub-Services Committee *PCUG Centre Sub-Committee ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 75c810b41adbceddfb001e4ff0f80cb7d6370d22 0 55 229 2012-08-04T07:16:51Z Krja 9 Created page with "Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]]" wikitext text/x-wiki Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 64dc15cbfcab832e5e4dbd69b0d7868d175f642b 0 44 231 135 2012-08-04T07:22:41Z Krja 9 moved [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] to [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]]:&#32;removing words "role descriptions" from title wikitext text/x-wiki == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f9f8104e4153dcdb9524c71015f3bc7a356e9f34 256 231 2012-08-04T08:21:38Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki ''content invited''<br/> [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] cdb174209b3ffff80e61e05f61019b1ab747f129 0 56 232 2012-08-04T07:22:41Z Krja 9 moved [[SIGs and Meetings Role Descriptions]] to [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]]:&#32;removing words "role descriptions" from title wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] f37c7989b824ede7b5d14c3f5e579c969688c2ea 0 46 237 198 2012-08-04T07:33:17Z Krja 9 moved [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] to [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] wikitext text/x-wiki TIP administrators provide specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services. All TIP admins need to be familiar with the operation and management of the (debian) linux server systems we use, which are hosted in a server room at TransACT House. They should be comfortable with using the unix command-line and with scripting in languages such as perl, php etc. Particular areas of support include: * accounting (using our own 'home-grown' account management s/w tied to LDAP & radius authentication & authorization servers) * Backup of files & databases across our servers using rsync * DNS (bind) & network configuration * Mail (postfix, dovecot) services * Systems management & update * System security * Web (apache) and MySQL database services * assorted other server config & management, incl. IRC, News, NTP, SSHD ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] af6d87bdd3d898a938e6153427da3c56c23e8049 0 57 238 2012-08-04T07:33:17Z Krja 9 moved [[TIP Administration Role Descriptions]] to [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] a07554c5367ecb4cedfda08705cc04186597b732 0 49 240 190 2012-08-04T07:37:02Z Krja 9 moved [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] to [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] wikitext text/x-wiki == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f9f8104e4153dcdb9524c71015f3bc7a356e9f34 242 240 2012-08-04T07:39:02Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 55fa1c84dd9a6daebd1e122e72977b48eff7d244 255 242 2012-08-04T08:20:39Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] bf11cad7371c1aad1e4ead6f36a790555d2e3c73 0 58 241 2012-08-04T07:37:02Z Krja 9 moved [[Training & Media Room Role Descriptions]] to [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] eda62f4588e8917d7621266803dd7a6ad642a15f 0 42 245 213 2012-08-04T07:43:03Z Krja 9 moved [[Office Role Descriptions]] to [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles == *'''Communication Administration support manning the desk''' for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help<br/r>This typically includes<br/> ** Open the office, before 10:00am. ** Perform 'start of day' tasks to prepare for the day. ** Answer phone calls from members (inclunding any 101 messages). ** Record in Log Book queries from members and their resolution. ** Update PCUG database and TIP accounts based on payments (cheque, creditcard and cash) received. Record payments in Daily Summary (excel) file. ** Process 'Direct Credit' payments made into PCUG's StGeorge account. ** Update the statistics form during the day. ** Perform 'end of day' tasks after 2:00pm, to finish off the day. *'''Background Administration support''', such as data entry, filing *'''A Supervisory role of the Centre''' itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *'''Maintenance of member amenities''', including refreshements *'''Centre Cleaning''' == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] af909749f75b6bc7e8b97a2bfe08b5240ff6953e 0 59 246 2012-08-04T07:43:03Z Krja 9 moved [[Office Role Descriptions]] to [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] f5cf62716d66d41579886901083c5f436342ea14 0 60 253 2012-08-04T08:10:11Z Krja 9 moved [[PCUG Committees and Sub-Committees]] to [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] cf91a2915bfd24abd1892ed6caef573f73d35796 2 31 257 199 2012-08-06T06:36:35Z Lpb 2 add link to More on Working with Wikis wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More on Working with Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] * [[Android App Recommendations]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} a8ef9de0835ea50ef04d573efbb3dadf5b749bc2 0 61 258 2012-08-06T06:50:44Z Lpb 2 create with initial skeletal structure wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * [[Help:Contents]] * [[Help:Editing]] Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as against wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather, simply use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] 9381c68da2f7b349e0f1354f2f0e2bf39d2c5584 262 258 2012-08-07T06:48:07Z Lpb 2 add section on history, and tweak wording wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the "History" tab on the top of any page. Or you can use the navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link to see who has changed any of the wiki pages recently. == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as against wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather, simply use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] cf03ca4a3a3829a76d114736015aacb591197b04 263 262 2012-08-08T06:59:18Z Lpb 2 Add notes on printing, what links here wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the "History" tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as against wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather, simply use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] 52795bd68e715446574b9d4ecd1918d2832a2691 12 3 259 120 2012-08-06T06:55:54Z Lpb 2 add more links into mediawiki guide wikitext text/x-wiki If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. For more information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Images Mediawiki Help Images] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Links Mediawiki Help Links] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Tables Mediawiki Help Tables] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] bf992543b54a4d23c2574b086765557bb9f3f05e 0 1 260 214 2012-08-07T05:03:27Z Lpb 2 incl "Activities and Opportunities" in areas to add info wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions, corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. ffd3bbdc217bcf310d4341c1288520b5e21d0cce 261 260 2012-08-07T05:04:07Z Lpb 2 /* Members Informing Members */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. ca27a741e9c5934a3e2206004f99587fb6017380 0 7 264 207 2012-08-08T06:59:59Z Lpb 2 Add link to More_on_Working_with_Wikis wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 4c4151d8fa6d62f4931807f208c90bb9e92b6f21 12 2 265 112 2012-08-08T07:00:40Z Lpb 2 Add link to More_on_Working_with_Wikis wikitext text/x-wiki If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guides to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. For more information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] 2a19e499fe292a49f6d2a21c9d7ebd354c7c71f6 2 62 266 2012-08-08T10:38:12Z Akabaila 11 Created page with "My Nics are Al or OldAl, which is mor colourful - and more informative." wikitext text/x-wiki My Nics are Al or OldAl, which is mor colourful - and more informative. c2bef8475442bdedc8f74f3cd728fb26ef232099 0 6 267 158 2012-08-08T11:41:45Z Lpb 2 Add link for Hobart Computer Users Group wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug]. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 98ca65de7ea5bd989e4850ba81cd7398e4f0a0a4 271 267 2012-08-09T07:48:41Z Lpb 2 Add link to Connecting Up/DonorTec wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] b565bd92072dd55070fcc8a9d196bf6f8ce5df17 0 61 268 263 2012-08-08T12:00:45Z Lpb 2 Add section on Special Pages wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', that aure automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as against wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather, simply use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] 4e7658591788137b3261639fabf42468ac80ec6f 272 268 2012-08-09T09:58:13Z Lpb 2 add see also section wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', that aure automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as against wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather, simply use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] 548d44f1c75bca150ed065b35f3cddda8bcafe9d 274 272 2012-08-09T09:59:47Z Lpb 2 add category wiki wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', that aure automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as against wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather, simply use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 5f056c43e72124659fc26c0d6d63c45666744f7e 282 274 2012-08-09T10:16:14Z Krja 9 /* Finding Help Information */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar is 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', that aure automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as against wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather, simply use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 9b144e313a7bd3e13eda00d96b18eb349b2b27e4 283 282 2012-08-09T12:49:17Z Lpb 2 tweak Quick Links wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', that aure automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as against wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather, simply use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] c7322e6d8d18599ca4ff5f40d41e35d78a7d7f90 284 283 2012-08-09T12:53:46Z Lpb 2 tweak assorted wording & format wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 7c373b7adc08193071940e71c943a3826fc1b56f 285 284 2012-08-09T13:14:58Z Lpb 2 link to MediaWikiRefCard.pdf wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 61c4419d7a462ad2de10472a11f3323fd229e80e 286 285 2012-08-09T13:22:38Z Lpb 2 text color ref wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. == More Editing Trickery == === Changing Text Color === See [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Text_color MediaWiki Text color] page for guidance on how to change text and background color (nb. this is done with raw HTML, as wiki markup does not include color commands). == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 5b100283f2232b043947674defd27fcad5312ea3 295 286 2012-08-10T04:57:44Z Lpb 2 add section on categories wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. == More Editing Trickery == === Changing Text Color === See [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Text_color MediaWiki Text color] page for guidance on how to change text and background color (nb. this is done with raw HTML, as wiki markup does not include color commands). == Indexing Pages using Categories == Categories are a useful means of collecting together a group of pages. To "create" a category you just start using one, by including a suitable category tag near the bottom of some page. This tag looks like: <nowiki>[[Category:new_category_name]]</nowiki> As soon as you add such a Category tag, the system will assign a new category page for it if it does not already exist. And if its new, the link will be in red, meaning if you select it you'll be asked to edit the "content" of the category page - which is separate to the index listing that appears automatically below this. And if you don't put any text in at this point, anyone browsing the category page will likewise be nagged for some content until something is actually saved there. Hence I recommend a simple 1 line description of what the category is for. And then its just a matter of adding the same category tag to other pages to group them all together. More information is available from the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Categories Mediawiki Help Categories] page. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] fed3e71de3f5a755387d6135df7814a819c219b8 296 295 2012-08-10T05:05:40Z Lpb 2 extend details in Changing Text Color wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. == More Editing Trickery == === Changing Text Color === See [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Text_color MediaWiki Text color] page for guidance on how to change text and background color (nb. this is done with raw HTML, as wiki markup does not include color commands). You can specify color values either by using one of the sixteen named colors, or as a hexadecimal RGB color value. As an example, you can change both the foreground text color, and the background color, by using commands like: <nowiki><span style="color:"purple; background:silver">colored text</span></nowiki> to render this text as <span style="color: purple; background:silver">colored text<span style="color:lime; background:silver"> == Indexing Pages using Categories == Categories are a useful means of collecting together a group of pages. To "create" a category you just start using one, by including a suitable category tag near the bottom of some page. This tag looks like: <nowiki>[[Category:new_category_name]]</nowiki> As soon as you add such a Category tag, the system will assign a new category page for it if it does not already exist. And if its new, the link will be in red, meaning if you select it you'll be asked to edit the "content" of the category page - which is separate to the index listing that appears automatically below this. And if you don't put any text in at this point, anyone browsing the category page will likewise be nagged for some content until something is actually saved there. Hence I recommend a simple 1 line description of what the category is for. And then its just a matter of adding the same category tag to other pages to group them all together. More information is available from the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Categories Mediawiki Help Categories] page. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 92c3bce5ab9e4f6f2da32886833c3f9dbef20f7c 297 296 2012-08-10T05:06:45Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. == More Editing Trickery == === Changing Text Color === See [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Text_color MediaWiki Text color] page for guidance on how to change text and background color (nb. this is done with raw HTML, as wiki markup does not include color commands). You can specify color values either by using one of the sixteen named colors, or as a hexadecimal RGB color value. As an example, you can change both the foreground text color, and the background color, by using a command like: <nowiki><span style="color:"purple; background:silver">colored text</span></nowiki> to render this text as <span style="color: purple; background:silver">colored text<span style="color:lime; background:silver"> == Indexing Pages using Categories == Categories are a useful means of collecting together a group of pages. To "create" a category you just start using one, by including a suitable category tag near the bottom of some page. This tag looks like: <nowiki>[[Category:new_category_name]]</nowiki> As soon as you add such a Category tag, the system will assign a new category page for it if it does not already exist. And if its new, the link will be in red, meaning if you select it you'll be asked to edit the "content" of the category page - which is separate to the index listing that appears automatically below this. And if you don't put any text in at this point, anyone browsing the category page will likewise be nagged for some content until something is actually saved there. Hence I recommend a simple 1 line description of what the category is for. And then its just a matter of adding the same category tag to other pages to group them all together. More information is available from the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Categories Mediawiki Help Categories] page. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 88fdb5b27bac57da7b7cafdd158cd627d4e3ca31 298 297 2012-08-10T05:10:58Z Lpb 2 link to mediawiki nav help page wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. See the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Navigation Mediawiki Help Navigation] page for more details. == More Editing Trickery == === Changing Text Color === See [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Text_color MediaWiki Text color] page for guidance on how to change text and background color (nb. this is done with raw HTML, as wiki markup does not include color commands). You can specify color values either by using one of the sixteen named colors, or as a hexadecimal RGB color value. As an example, you can change both the foreground text color, and the background color, by using a command like: <nowiki><span style="color:"purple; background:silver">colored text</span></nowiki> to render this text as <span style="color: purple; background:silver">colored text<span style="color:lime; background:silver"> == Indexing Pages using Categories == Categories are a useful means of collecting together a group of pages. To "create" a category you just start using one, by including a suitable category tag near the bottom of some page. This tag looks like: <nowiki>[[Category:new_category_name]]</nowiki> As soon as you add such a Category tag, the system will assign a new category page for it if it does not already exist. And if its new, the link will be in red, meaning if you select it you'll be asked to edit the "content" of the category page - which is separate to the index listing that appears automatically below this. And if you don't put any text in at this point, anyone browsing the category page will likewise be nagged for some content until something is actually saved there. Hence I recommend a simple 1 line description of what the category is for. And then its just a matter of adding the same category tag to other pages to group them all together. More information is available from the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Categories Mediawiki Help Categories] page. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 54b2bb1d84968b2b6af92beceaeec91000014d42 299 298 2012-08-10T05:12:35Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. See the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Navigation Mediawiki Help Navigation] page for more details. == More Editing Trickery == === Changing Text Color === See [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Text_color MediaWiki Text color] page for guidance on how to change text and background color (nb. this is done with raw HTML, as wiki markup does not include color commands). You can specify color values either by using one of the sixteen named colors, or as a hexadecimal RGB color value. As an example, you can change both the foreground text color, and the background color, by using a command like: <nowiki><span style="color:"purple; background:silver">colored text</span></nowiki> to render this text as <span style="color: purple; background:silver">colored text<span style="color:lime; background:silver"> == Indexing Pages using Categories == Categories are a useful means of collecting together a group of pages. To "create" a category you just start using one, by including a suitable category tag near the bottom of some page. This tag looks like: <nowiki>[[Category:new_category_name]]</nowiki> As soon as you add such a Category tag, the system will assign a new category page for it if it does not already exist. And if its new, the link will be in red, meaning if you select it you'll be asked to edit the "content" of the category page - which is separate to the index listing that appears automatically below this. And if you don't put any text in at this point, anyone browsing the category page will likewise be nagged for some content until something is actually saved there. Hence I recommend a simple 1 line description of what the category is for. And then its just a matter of adding the same category tag to other pages to group them all together. More information is available from the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Categories Mediawiki Help Categories] page. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] e4b9133e00f20c4a4eac085db97bfcb17595b24e 0 52 269 209 2012-08-08T12:05:37Z Stmcdona 12 sp. wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Apple iPhone/iPod apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will too. All of these are available from the official Apple App Store. == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] b5fb6d7bdf52f10ec5dae6c7271f766823703b26 279 269 2012-08-09T10:03:08Z Lpb 2 Category:Recommendations wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Apple iPhone/iPod apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will too. All of these are available from the official Apple App Store. == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 88cb4cd94b866cc4ef8b7a7f52e240b5869ad4d5 2 63 270 2012-08-08T12:06:23Z Stmcdona 12 new wikitext text/x-wiki Greetings. 21e190da29b3abe0b8d0553c09a42af230477bb6 0 36 273 205 2012-08-09T09:59:10Z Lpb 2 Add link to More_on_Working_with_Wikis & wiki category wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the formatting buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no <nowiki>''markup''</nowiki>&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For additional guidance on using our wikis, see our [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis|More on Working with Wikis]] guide. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 2ae7dbebcb173ef23ec946043c283d9e7eb5ad5a 287 273 2012-08-09T13:23:37Z Lpb 2 link to toolbar ref wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Edit_toolbar toolbar] buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, '''not Word'''), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no <nowiki>''markup''</nowiki>&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For additional guidance on using our wikis, see our [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis|More on Working with Wikis]] guide. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 784f4a9bea2d1b40b04955225f8280958d2a1696 288 287 2012-08-09T13:25:32Z Lpb 2 tweak wording wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than spaces or underscores. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. You format this text by using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Edit_toolbar toolbar] buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, preferably not Word), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no <nowiki>''markup''</nowiki>&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For additional guidance on using our wikis, see our [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis|More on Working with Wikis]] guide. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 3b999989ed278217a7da8298be787af4e05085cf 14 64 275 2012-08-09T10:00:20Z Lpb 2 create wikitext text/x-wiki Index of category wiki pages. 1edff10e33d4201d3f2f709701702b088a40f626 0 38 276 111 2012-08-09T10:00:53Z Lpb 2 add category wiki wikitext text/x-wiki [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Manual:Skins Skins] are used to customize the look and feel of a wiki. The default skin we use is '''monobook''', which is part of the standard Mediawiki distribution. We have also installed the '''WPtouch''' skin, for mobile/tablet use. This is automatically selected for use when a mobile (eg. android, iPhone/iPad/iPod) device is detected. When using this view of the wiki, you can access the Navigation and other administrative functions using the drop-down menu from the arrow on the top right of the wiki's title bar. You can explore alternate skins, and indeed choose another default for yourself (when logged in), by navigating to [[Special:Preferences|my preferences]] (located in the list across the top right of the wiki page), and then selecting the '''Skins''' tab to see and preview available skins. [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] ea74fea7309c768d04cad2d07d67ed0a5a2db8ea 0 50 277 202 2012-08-09T10:02:19Z Lpb 2 Category:Recommendations wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b25907783199fa0c822a9ff30a76595ae4c6ebe2 0 51 278 208 2012-08-09T10:02:44Z Lpb 2 Category:Recommendations wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Apple iPad apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Apple Apps Store. == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] f082a8a521242316ea72d79e9deff5f7ef5d36fe 0 53 280 210 2012-08-09T10:03:29Z Lpb 2 Category:Recommendations wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for some interesting programs that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 9bcd336d65d1ddc2dcb8e38781ad9ea2953797d1 14 65 281 2012-08-09T10:03:55Z Lpb 2 create wikitext text/x-wiki Index of Category Recommendations pages 31d1a1300d5bb95e517360091273092499b0b359 6 66 289 2012-08-10T00:10:25Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 7 290 264 2012-08-10T00:12:00Z Pblair 10 /* Computer Systems */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] f842e14b93c6baa6d01ac2df5e7a4b0ca576e531 292 290 2012-08-10T00:12:36Z Pblair 10 /* Smart devices */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e5f1663a5fd9f44af1971b780373bd4ea8cd313d 294 292 2012-08-10T00:57:59Z Lpb 2 add scanners heading wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] f3df1b0704bf3f43ce1f4370f57aa35591959ecb 0 67 291 2012-08-10T00:12:15Z Pblair 10 Created page with "This is a QR (Quick Response) code. They are really a form of barcode, and are coming more into use in Australia. [[image:qr.jpg|left|120px]] If you want to read a bit of the QR…" wikitext text/x-wiki This is a QR (Quick Response) code. They are really a form of barcode, and are coming more into use in Australia. [[image:qr.jpg|left|120px]] If you want to read a bit of the QR history, go to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code Wikipedia] Locally, they are being used to provide 'Coming Attraction' lists for movie houses, links to Google Maps to show how to get to particular places, and price lists for retail outlets. The usual mode of use is to install an app on a smart device, scan the QR code, and let the app do the work. Some useful apps are: '''iPhone''' : Neoreader, i-nigma, Optiscan, Barcode, QuickMark, Scanlife, TapMedia, QR Pro, QR Scanner '''Android''' : Barcode Scanner, ShopSavvy, Scanlife, QuickMark, QR Pal, i-nigma '''Blackberry''' : Scanlife, Bee Tagg, QR Code Scanner, i-nigma '''Windows Phone 7''' : PhraseMeme, QR Reader, Stripes, Bee Tagg, NeoReader, QuickMark, i-nigma 2340d1e4048583d29227fe40d641dba27d2716ba 293 291 2012-08-10T00:13:50Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a QR (Quick Response) code. It is really a form of barcode, and their use is increasing in Australia. [[image:qr.jpg|left|120px]] If you want to read a bit of the QR history, go to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code Wikipedia] Locally, they are being used to provide 'Coming Attraction' lists for movie houses, links to Google Maps to show how to get to particular places, and price lists for retail outlets. The usual mode of use is to install an app on a smart device, scan the QR code, and let the app do the work. Some useful apps are: '''iPhone''' : Neoreader, i-nigma, Optiscan, Barcode, QuickMark, Scanlife, TapMedia, QR Pro, QR Scanner '''Android''' : Barcode Scanner, ShopSavvy, Scanlife, QuickMark, QR Pal, i-nigma '''Blackberry''' : Scanlife, Bee Tagg, QR Code Scanner, i-nigma '''Windows Phone 7''' : PhraseMeme, QR Reader, Stripes, Bee Tagg, NeoReader, QuickMark, i-nigma e04597ea6141a4c65458625c802eae275dc2c3cd 0 5 300 254 2012-08-10T05:13:58Z Offcmngr 6 /* OH&S info & Legislation */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===[[OH&S info & Legislation]]=== ===Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation=== ===Registering Your Skills=== ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 3c28e11293f849e76414ab52b7c4adbcb16358d4 301 300 2012-08-10T05:14:59Z Offcmngr 6 /* Registering Your Skills */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===[[OH&S info & Legislation]]=== ===Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation=== == Registering Your Skills == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] e43b4be6c8149649959b80af50f195c28b920e88 302 301 2012-08-10T05:17:40Z Offcmngr 6 /* OH&S info & Legislation */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== ===Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation=== == Registering Your Skills == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 702035eeb7056ddbcaa1f831b7e0581979fd052b 303 302 2012-08-10T05:19:32Z Offcmngr 6 /* Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc ===Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation=== == Registering Your Skills == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 53453e828aa235ac8742356f598d17eba565196e 306 303 2012-08-10T05:24:20Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc ===Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation=== == Registering Your Skills == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 3c1b10c479c08e09e99b6a848039fc8716c15a9f 314 306 2012-08-10T05:31:43Z Offcmngr 6 /* Working with Vulnerable People Info & Legislation */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] fc5b255e10bc91c4612406c90df0d8a7f6ce4a09 315 314 2012-08-10T05:33:35Z Offcmngr 6 /* Code of Ethics */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===Code of Ethics=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 75d512c1053dc4baf2dbc6ad6ed5884a16b8e738 0 68 304 2012-08-10T05:22:00Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "[[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]]" wikitext text/x-wiki [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] 1f226f75de4ea69d938a4caec67b72a3f19b3f76 14 69 305 2012-08-10T05:23:41Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "The Volunteering Category collates information pertaining to the Volunteering at PCUG." wikitext text/x-wiki The Volunteering Category collates information pertaining to the Volunteering at PCUG. 872a9af6a216e6ce973e38cd001ef9e07b58dead 0 54 307 252 2012-08-10T05:25:11Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == PCUG Main Committee == '''An overview of roles may be viewed in the Rules [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/rules]''' *President *Vice President *Treasurer *Secretary *General Committee == Sub-committees == *Website Sub-Committee *Internet Sub-Services Committee *PCUG Centre Sub-Committee ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 70ac1936f49bcb80098c15d8ee539d1db03d1f29 0 48 308 196 2012-08-10T05:25:35Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki An overview of help procedures are outlined on the main PCUG [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] site in support of "Users Helping Users" <br/> These procedures are supported by members who have skill, and a willingness share that skill. <br/> == Help Email Group == * this email list receives technical help queries from members<br/> * the list is monitored by members with a variety of skills, whose collective knowledge is efficient in achieving resolution of the issue. * interested members may subscribe to the list<br/> == Home Installation == * is the provision of techical support in the home via arrangement after other avenues of support have been exhausted. == Referral to Members who have that skill == *Members are invited to register skills they possess with the PCUG Office.<br/> *Details of contact restrictions, etc are recorded and used per the pre-advised preferences of the member. ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] c298820170d5aff6cccb310bc41c821692a4a89c 0 55 309 229 2012-08-10T05:26:09Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] f99d5c2e3310872278be3372583412bdeb78727f 0 42 310 245 2012-08-10T05:26:35Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. == PCUG Centre Roles == *'''Communication Administration support manning the desk''' for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help<br/r>This typically includes<br/> ** Open the office, before 10:00am. ** Perform 'start of day' tasks to prepare for the day. ** Answer phone calls from members (inclunding any 101 messages). ** Record in Log Book queries from members and their resolution. ** Update PCUG database and TIP accounts based on payments (cheque, creditcard and cash) received. Record payments in Daily Summary (excel) file. ** Process 'Direct Credit' payments made into PCUG's StGeorge account. ** Update the statistics form during the day. ** Perform 'end of day' tasks after 2:00pm, to finish off the day. *'''Background Administration support''', such as data entry, filing *'''A Supervisory role of the Centre''' itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *'''Maintenance of member amenities''', including refreshements *'''Centre Cleaning''' == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] b7f869933a1216c4efb4faaa815f89c8981793d0 0 44 311 256 2012-08-10T05:28:09Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki ''content invited''<br/> [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] [[Category:SIGs and Meetings]] 9216b573b8299dd317726e7a2c22aab4f09bf5e1 0 46 312 237 2012-08-10T05:29:49Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki TIP administrators provide specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services. All TIP admins need to be familiar with the operation and management of the (debian) linux server systems we use, which are hosted in a server room at TransACT House. They should be comfortable with using the unix command-line and with scripting in languages such as perl, php etc. Particular areas of support include: * accounting (using our own 'home-grown' account management s/w tied to LDAP & radius authentication & authorization servers) * Backup of files & databases across our servers using rsync * DNS (bind) & network configuration * Mail (postfix, dovecot) services * Systems management & update * System security * Web (apache) and MySQL database services * assorted other server config & management, incl. IRC, News, NTP, SSHD ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 98500bc6b428e7b55c4ca5110babe084a36dba6f 0 49 313 255 2012-08-10T05:30:38Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 3c7b3345f38ec63084203abe0c15d5737f136584 0 5 316 315 2012-08-10T05:33:51Z Offcmngr 6 /* Code of Ethics */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 66061521fa8cb0ea337e572380f10ec2a61eb8a7 323 316 2012-08-10T06:16:51Z Offcmngr 6 /* Registering Your Skills */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. *All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> *Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> *''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> *'''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' gives a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> *Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> *Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> ==Categories of Activities & Role Descriptions:== === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 8605fe888d88fa4402beed926928b6200983e2c0 325 323 2012-08-10T07:50:02Z Lpb 2 Add "Current Activities" section & rebadge "Opportunities for Participation" wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Current Activities == This section aims to inform members of current activities of note. == Opportunities for Participation == This section of '''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 70b2616628f404156b0597f7d55fad966afcd034 340 325 2012-08-11T04:03:45Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Training and Media Rooms */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Current Activities == This section aims to inform members of current activities of note. == Opportunities for Participation == This section of '''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment & Resources == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 7ae3f8a6500090acb9dc071639e1b6bc848d32f9 348 340 2012-08-11T04:53:55Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Training and Media Rooms */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Current Activities == This section aims to inform members of current activities of note. == Opportunities for Participation == This section of '''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment === Learning Resources === == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 272bf5f9d39444426a07f22ac96c45c385b5d53e 349 348 2012-08-11T04:57:16Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Current Activities == This section aims to inform members of current activities of note. === Learning Resources === == Opportunities for Participation == This section of '''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment === Learning Resources === == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] e99b4618872f485a6195479b5cd8b233593255ae 350 349 2012-08-11T04:57:34Z Krja 9 /* Learning Resources */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Current Activities == This section aims to inform members of current activities of note. === Learning Resources === == Opportunities for Participation == This section of '''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] bd3f2e8329f3ea093d5518c8aed10fd0875bc067 351 350 2012-08-11T05:13:23Z Krja 9 /* Learning Resources */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Current Activities == This section aims to inform members of current activities of note. * All activities, including SIGs and Training may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (see link in navigation bar) == Opportunities for Participation == This section of '''Volunteer Role Descriptions''' provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] ad39698f6ed4c9cfd5edb013191bb72c6b57feef 352 351 2012-08-11T05:16:08Z Krja 9 /* Opportunities for Participation */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Current Activities == This section aims to inform members of current activities of note. * All activities, including SIGs and Training may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (see link in navigation bar) == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] c24eef106779c24de36b57cb922cfcea59baac8e 353 352 2012-08-11T05:27:51Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Activity Summary == *'''Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (see link in navigation bar) *'''Activity Descriptions''' are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' *A guide to varied '''Support and Helpful''' information may be viewed in '''Technical Info'' (see link in navigation bar) == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] da864cd1e68877e36163f1134e53d6ed1e8a0659 355 353 2012-08-11T05:42:57Z Krja 9 /* Activity Summary */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Introduction == ===Activity Schedules=== *'''Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (''see link in navigation bar'') ===Activity Descriptions=== *are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' ===Support and Helpful Information=== ====Technical Info==== *A guide to specific varied '''Support and Helpful''' information may be viewed in '''Technical Info''' (''see link in navigation bar'') ====TIP (The Internet Project)==== *TIP specific Information is found on the TIP Wiki (''see TIP Wiki link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG General Info==== *PCUG general info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG Info Wiki==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members!! == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 7919b88d5c0af6a6d6d0c8225a17c333e40d6e33 356 355 2012-08-11T05:45:04Z Krja 9 /* Technical Info */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == Introduction == ===Activity Schedules=== *'''Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (''see link in navigation bar'') ===Activity Descriptions=== *are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' ===Support and Helpful Information=== ====Technical Info==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information may be viewed in '''Technical Info''' (''see link in navigation bar'') *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. ====TIP (The Internet Project)==== *TIP specific Information is found on the TIP Wiki (''see TIP Wiki link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG General Info==== *PCUG general info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG Info Wiki==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members!! == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == About Volunteering == This area is intented to overview information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 1baede757e156bb8e2f900c496740fb56905e0dd 357 356 2012-08-11T05:50:21Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc ===Activity Schedules=== *'''Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (''see link in navigation bar'') ===Activity Descriptions=== *are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' ===Support and Helpful Information=== ====Technical Info==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information may be viewed in '''Technical Info''' (''see link in navigation bar'') *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. ====TIP (The Internet Project)==== *TIP specific Information is found on the TIP Wiki (''see TIP Wiki link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG General Info==== *PCUG general info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG Info Wiki==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members!! == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 0376102483e0801ba639366400e8816e84ef46bf 358 357 2012-08-11T05:52:25Z Krja 9 /* Opportunities for Participation */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc ===Activity Schedules=== *'''Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (''see link in navigation bar'') ===Activity Descriptions=== *are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' ===Support and Helpful Information=== ====Technical Info==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information may be viewed in '''Technical Info''' (''see link in navigation bar'') *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. ====TIP (The Internet Project)==== *TIP specific Information is found on the TIP Wiki (''see TIP Wiki link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG General Info==== *PCUG general info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG Info Wiki==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members!! == Activities with Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 08ef06208a1ac8251a494acc9157502769438e6f 359 358 2012-08-11T05:54:03Z Krja 9 /* Activity Schedules */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc ===Activity Schedules=== ====PCUG Calendar==== *Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (''see link in navigation bar'') ===Activity Descriptions=== *are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' ===Support and Helpful Information=== ====Technical Info==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information may be viewed in '''Technical Info''' (''see link in navigation bar'') *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. ====TIP (The Internet Project)==== *TIP specific Information is found on the TIP Wiki (''see TIP Wiki link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG General Info==== *PCUG general info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG Info Wiki==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members!! == Activities with Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 20417f7d7dcc667bd6899ff4af39141c2d16f0b7 362 359 2012-08-11T06:08:39Z Krja 9 /* Support and Helpful Information */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc ===Activity Schedules=== ====PCUG Calendar==== *Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (''see link in navigation bar'') ===Activity Descriptions=== *are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' == Activities with Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] f40aba7dc8ef729856dc39b1466b0a7c2cc47311 0 68 317 304 2012-08-10T05:48:30Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category: Policies and Procedures]] 174d51596aa131f8a5f42f6acfbd33286d23e4c5 319 317 2012-08-10T05:51:48Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Work Health and Safety == ===The Essential Guide to Work Health and Safety for Organisations that Engage Volunteers=== [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category: Policies and Procedures]] 5346ab451bba3f029f53c20cf9bbcb95a98c516a 321 319 2012-08-10T06:12:42Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Work Health and Safety == *On Wednesday 1 August 2012, the Hon. Bill Shorten MP, announced the release of the Safe Work Australia Volunteer Resource Kit. *The kit was developed with input from a range of peak volunteer organisations including Volunteering ACT. *The kit will assist volunteers to understand what Work Health and Safety laws mean for them and provides a range of useful tools and information on Work Health and Safety laws including: Full details are available at: http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/SWA/Legislation/volunteers/Pages/Resource-kit.aspx [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category: Policies and Procedures]] 05ac66225cf24836dac00c86d7f216cdc6c928e0 14 70 318 2012-08-10T05:49:19Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "A collation references pertaining to Policies and Procedures" wikitext text/x-wiki A collation references pertaining to Policies and Procedures d53fd47f7be69d49894d87e5e72112a0104d3a9c 6 71 320 2012-08-10T05:57:37Z Offcmngr 6 The Essential Guide to Work Health and Safety for Organisations that Engage Volunteers ISBN 978-0-642-78557-2 wikitext text/x-wiki The Essential Guide to Work Health and Safety for Organisations that Engage Volunteers ISBN 978-0-642-78557-2 48a0f0bde0021117da03fd93fe2c9bb66411753e 0 72 322 2012-08-10T06:15:20Z Offcmngr 6 Created page with "The '''PCUG Privacy Policy''' may be viewed at the link at the bottom of this page." wikitext text/x-wiki The '''PCUG Privacy Policy''' may be viewed at the link at the bottom of this page. 3f963f1a6d72941b873e35423c933888e6bb0440 0 4 324 109 2012-08-10T07:45:33Z Lpb 2 PCUG Information Wiki Announced wikitext text/x-wiki '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office closed for Audit - Monday 30 July, 2012'''== While audit is being conducted, the PCUG office will be closed.<br/> Karen (PCUG Office Manager)<br/> =='''Beginners SIG for Thur 26 July, 2012 session cancelled'''== BSIG-ers, Just letting you know that the BSIG session on Thursday 26 July morning at PCUG, 27 Mulley St, Holder has been CANCELLED due to unforeseen circumstances. The session scheduled Thursday 9 August at PCUG will progress as usual.<br/> Eleanor (BSig Coordinator)<br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 59f7e73c99c61b9b8f8bdafd8f31515349730b86 329 324 2012-08-11T03:17:44Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> == '''TIP Maintenance Outage scheduled Sat 18 August, 2012''' == ''''''Item Date 11 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As recently announced to all members by email, confirming that arrangements are in place for TIP maintenance, which will require some downtime of all internet services, scheduled Saturday 18th August 2012 9am-5pm (with down time as minimal as possible). *Thankyou again for your understanding as we undertake this task. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office closed for Audit - Monday 30 July, 2012'''== While audit is being conducted, the PCUG office will be closed.<br/> Karen (PCUG Office Manager)<br/> =='''Beginners SIG for Thur 26 July, 2012 session cancelled'''== BSIG-ers, Just letting you know that the BSIG session on Thursday 26 July morning at PCUG, 27 Mulley St, Holder has been CANCELLED due to unforeseen circumstances. The session scheduled Thursday 9 August at PCUG will progress as usual.<br/> Eleanor (BSig Coordinator)<br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d2acb594dad3f54531a4f1a66b4aa38a523f53bb 330 329 2012-08-11T03:18:12Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Office closed for Audit - Monday 30 July, 2012 */ wikitext text/x-wiki '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> == '''TIP Maintenance Outage scheduled Sat 18 August, 2012''' == ''''''Item Date 11 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As recently announced to all members by email, confirming that arrangements are in place for TIP maintenance, which will require some downtime of all internet services, scheduled Saturday 18th August 2012 9am-5pm (with down time as minimal as possible). *Thankyou again for your understanding as we undertake this task. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Beginners SIG for Thur 26 July, 2012 session cancelled'''== BSIG-ers, Just letting you know that the BSIG session on Thursday 26 July morning at PCUG, 27 Mulley St, Holder has been CANCELLED due to unforeseen circumstances. The session scheduled Thursday 9 August at PCUG will progress as usual.<br/> Eleanor (BSig Coordinator)<br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] c62f4c849ca0c2bdfd57f3d77955bfcd50d2d3a9 331 330 2012-08-11T03:18:32Z Krja 9 /* Beginners SIG for Thur 26 July, 2012 session cancelled */ wikitext text/x-wiki '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> == '''TIP Maintenance Outage scheduled Sat 18 August, 2012''' == ''''''Item Date 11 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As recently announced to all members by email, confirming that arrangements are in place for TIP maintenance, which will require some downtime of all internet services, scheduled Saturday 18th August 2012 9am-5pm (with down time as minimal as possible). *Thankyou again for your understanding as we undertake this task. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] f2176e1b0708dcfdaf9c6ee05206fab3879f5a15 332 331 2012-08-11T03:22:06Z Krja 9 /* TIP Maintenance Outage scheduled Sat 18 August, 2012 */ wikitext text/x-wiki '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> == '''TIP Maintenance Outage scheduled Sat 18 August, 2012''' == ''''''Item Date 11 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As recently announced to all members by email, confirming that arrangements are in place for TIP maintenance, which will require some downtime of all TIP services, scheduled Saturday 18th August 2012 9am-5pm (with down time as minimal as possible). *Thankyou again for your understanding as we undertake this task. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d867ecefd5bf043c2277bb4a5ca5451887603dbf 354 332 2012-08-11T05:38:26Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> == '''TIP Maintenance Outage scheduled Sat 18 August, 2012''' == ''''''Item Date 11 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As recently announced to all members by email, confirming that arrangements are in place for TIP maintenance, which will require some downtime of all TIP services, scheduled Saturday 18th August 2012 9am-5pm (with down time as minimal as possible). *Thankyou again for your understanding as we undertake this task. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] dfb9bc3df4b9ee903e4f8a8be96ea4fb98506e26 0 1 326 261 2012-08-10T07:52:40Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 9b6dfa1ae7b29202893fc6f2bdab693a3deb6315 333 326 2012-08-11T03:48:16Z Krja 9 /* Activities and Opportunities */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 167442d41eda520bc49baec0fa79502160e38c6e 334 333 2012-08-11T03:48:30Z Krja 9 /* News and Notices */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. f0fb16594da2e5059dc3910fd3d5b954a7c7e085 335 334 2012-08-11T03:48:46Z Krja 9 /* Newsletters */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... == [[Newsletters]] == *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 7a8103ffd232d9f6f92668a97b5cd3f8d04c7deb 336 335 2012-08-11T03:53:17Z Krja 9 /* Technical Info */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... == [[Newsletters]] == *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *'''Please note that <font color=red>information</font> related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's <font color=red>'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services</font> are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' 307a43cc675b017854e3235f100abf20dd98a6c3 339 336 2012-08-11T04:01:35Z Krja 9 /* Technical Info */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... == [[Newsletters]] == *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 6ab66bdce217e308f50e46cbadfcf35b17714172 360 339 2012-08-11T06:01:38Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... == [[Newsletters]] == *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ==Support and Helpful Information== ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. ====TIP (The Internet Project)==== *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ====PCUG General Info==== *PCUG general info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG Info Wiki==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! 1176be07beb51a873573139ee5e65c2b3b936da8 361 360 2012-08-11T06:04:34Z Krja 9 /* Technical Info */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... == [[Newsletters]] == *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ==Support and Helpful Information== ====[[Technical Info]] on this wiki==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. ====TIP (The Internet Project)==== *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ====PCUG General Info==== *PCUG general info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ====PCUG Info Wiki==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! 1faebff62d12d6d96690d18e0b9d45145d3f66a7 363 361 2012-08-11T06:16:39Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == Overview of Information Management== ===PCUG General Info=== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ===TIP (The Internet Project) Info=== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ===PCUG Info Wiki (this wiki) === *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! == PCUG Info Wiki Categories== ==== [[News and Notices]] == *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... == [[Newsletters]] == *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ==Support and Helpful Information== ====[[Technical Info]] on this wiki==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. ====TIP (The Internet Project)==== *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 465f09821345ce5b875967fa9c65e79268fa2990 364 363 2012-08-11T06:19:30Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==Overview of Information Management== ===PCUG General Info=== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ===TIP (The Internet Project) Info=== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ===PCUG Info Wiki (this wiki)=== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! == PCUG Info Wiki Categories== === [[News and Notices]] === *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices === [[Activities and Opportunities]] === Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... === [[Newsletters]] === *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ===[[Technical Info]] on this wiki=== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> e3b681c49b86557d65842d94011f2a67fee8e6c1 365 364 2012-08-11T06:29:13Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ ==Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki== <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> ===Members Informing Members=== *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ===Contributions to the Wiki=== *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. ===Viewing Wiki=== *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==Overview of Information Management for PCUG and TIP== ===PCUG General Info=== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') ===TIP (The Internet Project) Info=== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ===PCUG Info Wiki (this wiki)=== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ===[[News and Notices]]=== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ===[[Activities and Opportunities]]=== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... === [[Newsletters]] === *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ===[[Technical Info]]=== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 497087e51ac5eca651de8486d77450881bb52e12 0 61 327 299 2012-08-10T07:56:14Z Lpb 2 Add more info on Categories wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. See the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Navigation Mediawiki Help Navigation] page for more details. == More Editing Trickery == === Changing Text Color === See [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Text_color MediaWiki Text color] page for guidance on how to change text and background color (nb. this is done with raw HTML, as wiki markup does not include color commands). You can specify color values either by using one of the sixteen named colors, or as a hexadecimal RGB color value. As an example, you can change both the foreground text color, and the background color, by using a command like: <nowiki><span style="color:"purple; background:silver">colored text</span></nowiki> to render this text as <span style="color: purple; background:silver">colored text<span style="color:lime; background:silver"> == Indexing Pages using Categories == Categories are a useful means of collecting together a group of pages. To "create" a category you just start using one, by including a suitable category tag near the bottom of some page. This tag looks like: <nowiki>[[Category:new_category_name]]</nowiki> As soon as you add such a Category tag, the system will assign a new category page for it if it does not already exist. And if its new, the link will be in red, meaning if you select it you'll be asked to edit the "content" of the category page - which is separate to the index listing that appears automatically below this. And if you don't put any text in at this point, anyone browsing the category page will likewise be nagged for some content until something is actually saved there. Hence I recommend adding a simple 1 line description of what the category is for. And then its just a matter of adding the same category tag to other pages to group them all together. You can access any specific category index by following the link to it at the bottom of any page belonging to the category. And you can use the [[Special:Categories| Special Categories]] index, which can be accessed using the toolbox [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link, to see a list of all categories in use on this wiki. More information is available from the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Categories Mediawiki Help Categories] page. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] c72bb2387d367f1c0403a85aa8790701de440a98 328 327 2012-08-10T22:33:25Z Lpb 2 add color names & chart link wikitext text/x-wiki == Finding Help Information == Some guidance on searching for information beyond that provided in our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages]]. On our ([http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]) wiki's look at: * the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page which contains a variety of useful links * the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] page, which may be accessed via the link at the bottom when editing any wiki page Otherswise, look at: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] which provides links to a large number of pages with more info * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MediaWikiRefCard.pdf MediaWiki reference card] is a one page summary of important MediaWiki editing commands, intended to be printed out and used next to the computer. == Quick Links == * located in the left menu bar (or in the drop down menu in the mobile view) are 'navigation', 'search' and 'toolbox' * these serve as quick access to information areas, or functions more likely to be accessed frequently. See the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Navigation Mediawiki Help Navigation] page for more details. == More Editing Trickery == === Changing Text Color === See [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Text_color MediaWiki Text color] page for guidance on how to change text and background color (nb. this is done with raw HTML, as wiki markup does not include color commands). You can specify color values either by using one of the sixteen named colors (aqua, black, blue, fuchsia, gray, green, lime, maroon, navy, olive, purple, red, silver, teal, white, and yellow), or as a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_colors hexadecimal RGB color value]. There are several HTML codes you can use, but '''span''' is likely the most useful. With this, you can change either the foreground text color, or the background color, or both (as here) using a command like: <nowiki><span style="color:purple; background:silver">colored text</span></nowiki> to render this text as <span style="color: purple; background:silver">colored text<span style="color:lime; background:silver"> == Indexing Pages using Categories == Categories are a useful means of collecting together a group of pages. To "create" a category you just start using one, by including a suitable category tag near the bottom of some page. This tag looks like: <nowiki>[[Category:new_category_name]]</nowiki> As soon as you add such a Category tag, the system will assign a new category page for it if it does not already exist. And if its new, the link will be in red, meaning if you select it you'll be asked to edit the "content" of the category page - which is separate to the index listing that appears automatically below this. And if you don't put any text in at this point, anyone browsing the category page will likewise be nagged for some content until something is actually saved there. Hence I recommend adding a simple 1 line description of what the category is for. And then its just a matter of adding the same category tag to other pages to group them all together. You can access any specific category index by following the link to it at the bottom of any page belonging to the category. And you can use the [[Special:Categories| Special Categories]] index, which can be accessed using the toolbox [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link, to see a list of all categories in use on this wiki. More information is available from the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Categories Mediawiki Help Categories] page. == Printing Pages == To print a wiki page, first select the '''Printable version''' toolbox link to display a page formatted for printing. Then use your browser's '''Print''' command to print this page. == Page and Change History == To access the history of who has made changes to any wiki page, just select the '''History''' tab on the top of any page. The '''What links here''' toolbox link displays a page with details of all other pages on this wiki that links to the current page. The navigation [[Special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] link displays a list of all recent changes to any of the wiki pages. == Special Pages == The [[Special:SpecialPages|SpecialPages]] link in the toolbox takes you to an index of a large number of '''special pages''', which are automatically created by the wiki system upon request, that provide a wide variety of information on the operation of the wiki, including: * [[Special:AllPages|All Pages]] index * [[Special:Categories|Categories]] index * [[Special:ListUsers|List of Registered Users]] who have logged in to the wiki and many others. Just explore to see! == Moving/Renaming Pages == Moving (renaming) a page means giving it another name, and is done by using the "move" tab. This renames the page, but also moves it's editing history, and leaves behind a redirect on the old page, so that links (which are not automatically changed) do not break. See [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Moving_a_page Mediawiki Help Moving a page], and [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Redirects Mediawiki Help Redirects]. == Deleting Pages == Is not recommended as it goes against the wiki philosophy of sharing information. Rather you should just use the [[#Moving/Renaming Pages]] capability. However, if there is a '''really''' good reason to delete a page, then one of the '''wiki sysops''' can do this. You need to contact the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee] to request this. == See Also == * our [[Getting_Started_Editing_Wiki_Pages|Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] guide * or the [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] f0210965a30563f8fc3f36a5df474edcf5e9ba09 12 2 337 265 2012-08-11T03:55:53Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guides to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. For more information about editing pages in wikis using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia and many others), see the following: * [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Editing Wikimedia Editing Help] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] [[Category:Policies and Procedures]] [[category:wiki]] bec847b0e797866260a079535337f3dfbb52b6ab 14 73 338 2012-08-11T03:57:33Z Krja 9 Created page with "Information pertaining to Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings" wikitext text/x-wiki Information pertaining to Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings 1e8fadb81470fecd63e38dd6b4645dd511d6c927 0 49 341 313 2012-08-11T04:05:41Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' == Equipment == ''content invited'' == Resources == ''content invited'' [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] a0ddb8e2a351b25106197dbf7423b9995874a5e5 0 67 342 293 2012-08-11T04:14:04Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a QR (Quick Response) code. It is really a form of barcode, and their use is increasing in Australia. [[image:qr.jpg|left|120px]] If you want to read a bit of the QR history, go to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code Wikipedia] Locally, they are being used to provide 'Coming Attraction' lists for movie houses, links to Google Maps to show how to get to particular places, and price lists for retail outlets. The usual mode of use is to install an app on a smart device, scan the QR code, and let the app do the work. Some useful apps are: '''iPhone''' : Neoreader, i-nigma, Optiscan, Barcode, QuickMark, Scanlife, TapMedia, QR Pro, QR Scanner '''Android''' : Barcode Scanner, ShopSavvy, Scanlife, QuickMark, QR Pal, i-nigma '''Blackberry''' : Scanlife, Bee Tagg, QR Code Scanner, i-nigma '''Windows Phone 7''' : PhraseMeme, QR Reader, Stripes, Bee Tagg, NeoReader, QuickMark, i-nigma [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 5f0272493704b4d86850441c6e2de9c765d7f3e2 343 342 2012-08-11T04:14:30Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a QR (Quick Response) code. It is really a form of barcode, and their use is increasing in Australia. [[image:qr.jpg|left|120px]] If you want to read a bit of the QR history, go to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code Wikipedia] Locally, they are being used to provide 'Coming Attraction' lists for movie houses, links to Google Maps to show how to get to particular places, and price lists for retail outlets. The usual mode of use is to install an app on a smart device, scan the QR code, and let the app do the work. Some useful apps are: '''iPhone''' : Neoreader, i-nigma, Optiscan, Barcode, QuickMark, Scanlife, TapMedia, QR Pro, QR Scanner '''Android''' : Barcode Scanner, ShopSavvy, Scanlife, QuickMark, QR Pal, i-nigma '''Blackberry''' : Scanlife, Bee Tagg, QR Code Scanner, i-nigma '''Windows Phone 7''' : PhraseMeme, QR Reader, Stripes, Bee Tagg, NeoReader, QuickMark, i-nigma [[Category:Technical Info]] 4e8208df2411030a6a876fe9dc44f449aab074da 0 7 344 294 2012-08-11T04:38:02Z Pblair 10 /* Internet */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] fe2ce2ea017acc3a14e26835769a649603e2cae1 6 74 345 2012-08-11T04:38:50Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 75 346 2012-08-11T04:38:59Z Pblair 10 Created page with "=== Web Hosting === When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. T…" wikitext text/x-wiki === Web Hosting === When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs (including PCUG, whose web pages and wikis are all 'hosted')) and is quite affordable. The TIP wiki gives some idea of cost at http://tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Hosting ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) ... all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... [[Category:Technical Info]] 97fcca2011d82c489d56abe21529158bcb667e0c 347 346 2012-08-11T04:39:18Z Pblair 10 /* Web Hosting */ wikitext text/x-wiki When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs (including PCUG, whose web pages and wikis are all 'hosted')) and is quite affordable. The TIP wiki gives some idea of cost at http://tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Hosting ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) ... all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... [[Category:Technical Info]] bf99b7c0de1309853bd1384792b34c506aeafad9 0 1 366 365 2012-08-11T06:33:20Z Krja 9 /* Overview of Information Management for PCUG and TIP */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ ==Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki== <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> ===Members Informing Members=== *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ===Contributions to the Wiki=== *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. ===Viewing Wiki=== *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ===[[News and Notices]]=== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ===[[Activities and Opportunities]]=== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... === [[Newsletters]] === *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ===[[Technical Info]]=== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 56a02fa35df4b9eec79e3c52c0a44eb302997ddf 367 366 2012-08-11T06:44:49Z Krja 9 /* Members Informing Members */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ ==Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki== <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> ==Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP== ===PCUG General Info=== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ===TIP (The Internet Project) Info=== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ===<font color=blue>PCUG Info Wiki</font> (this wiki) Members Informing Members=== *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. ===Contributions to the Wiki=== *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. ===Viewing Wiki=== *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ===[[News and Notices]]=== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ===[[Activities and Opportunities]]=== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... === [[Newsletters]] === *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ===[[Technical Info]]=== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 57de266b03580adb15f6d3a90798685c41a6b062 368 367 2012-08-11T06:48:30Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ ==Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki== <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> ==Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP== ===PCUG General Info=== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ===TIP (The Internet Project) Info=== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ===PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members=== *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. ==Contributions to the Wiki== *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. ===Viewing Wiki=== *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ===[[News and Notices]]=== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ===[[Activities and Opportunities]]=== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... === [[Newsletters]] === *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ===[[Technical Info]]=== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> baec1fba79bce4395cbc11ea1d562822328b0e80 369 368 2012-08-11T06:58:05Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ ==Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki== <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> ===Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP=== ====PCUG General Info==== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ====TIP (The Internet Project) Info==== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ====PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members==== *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. ==Wiki Overview== ===Contributions to the Wiki=== *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. ===Viewing Wiki=== *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 1196caf231206185d8b51ccf8e4eaec8ffc7e416 370 369 2012-08-11T07:02:46Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP === ==== PCUG General Info ==== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ==== TIP (The Internet Project) Info ==== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ==== PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members ==== *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. == Wiki Overview == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 8a0b1edb99c42371fdfa7ccf2e1b09ab21532e52 371 370 2012-08-11T07:05:49Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP === ==== PCUG General Info ==== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ==== TIP (The Internet Project) Info ==== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ==== PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members ==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. == Wiki Overview == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 3591cda379319916e48b41cae5a574ace51644eb 372 371 2012-08-11T07:08:44Z Krja 9 /* Wiki Overview */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP === ==== PCUG General Info ==== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ==== TIP (The Internet Project) Info ==== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ==== PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members ==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 4bddcb9e59f18f0f3f084c8e9a757ee497294573 373 372 2012-08-11T07:09:07Z Krja 9 /* Contributions to the Wiki */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP === ==== PCUG General Info ==== *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. ==== TIP (The Internet Project) Info ==== *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ==== PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members ==== *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. *Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 36f2c766910d989e11336f2c72342e4d700fb938 374 373 2012-08-11T07:11:12Z Krja 9 wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. *Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. 6d2944e407a01ad3fd54161e7395187b47456f8e 382 374 2012-08-11T19:59:42Z Krja 9 restoring original layout (alternate layout has been saved as "Main (draft alternative)" wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 9b6dfa1ae7b29202893fc6f2bdab693a3deb6315 393 382 2012-08-12T07:00:55Z Lpb 2 Tighten intro wording and link to about page wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. c22479e438e9c7619ee3363fd1c5806238656d2b 396 393 2012-08-12T07:15:41Z Lpb 2 prune more wording from site description wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. 420b4a35af3c12569a14699f9afe1beb13e81574 397 396 2012-08-12T10:28:24Z Lpb 2 Tweak Technical Info wording wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 1458d5cf6ba35735ca89f4ba51f3dd015ff9c352 4 29 375 63 2012-08-11T07:32:27Z Lpb 2 tweak wording wikitext text/x-wiki Please note that the information and views expressed in pages on this site are those of the members who provided them, and are not necessarily endorsed by the PCUG. fc314db80b8f883e3efe46e2e65b7417969526ce 401 375 2012-08-12T10:34:07Z Lpb 2 add category tag wikitext text/x-wiki Please note that the information and views expressed in pages on this site are those of the members who provided them, and are not necessarily endorsed by the PCUG. [[Category:General]] 0b2b4cd73fd7f8a7875492bd1fcf4567e106922b 0 76 376 2012-08-11T19:50:11Z Krja 9 Created page with "== Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown bel…" wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. *Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. 6d2944e407a01ad3fd54161e7395187b47456f8e 377 376 2012-08-11T19:50:58Z Krja 9 /* TIP (The Internet Project) Info */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. *Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. 5a55db708430c46f4236e34ffd03e85ffe756c35 378 377 2012-08-11T19:51:47Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Info Wiki (this wiki) Members Informing Members */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. *Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. 0768e4bc8943ddcc3b4fb6c7550f767ab77e05d4 379 378 2012-08-11T19:52:33Z Krja 9 /* Viewing Wiki */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. *Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. 1022c15e352eba90a34d2ddc5ebfa54b828a8b5f 380 379 2012-08-11T19:53:08Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Info Wiki (this wiki) Members Informing Members */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. *Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! 32d68125f5bd2a4a7cf9b1cbb6cd24632ffb21f6 381 380 2012-08-11T19:53:45Z Krja 9 /* Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == *This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. *This includes current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=red>Please support this member initiative by adding content!</font><br/> == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === *This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. *To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). *You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. *Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. *If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. *Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. === Viewing Wiki === *You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. *Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. ==PCUG Information Wiki [[Special:Categories|Categories]]== ====[[News and Notices]]==== *Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices ====[[Activities and Opportunities]]==== Includes information about groups activities & opportunities for participation. *Information sharing - teaching and learning ... *Information Resources - varied choices, how to access ... *Equipment Resources - Training & Media Room, Member Use Computers ... *Socializing with others who have like interests ... ==== [[Newsletters]]==== *Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources ====[[Technical Info]]==== *A guide to specific and varied '''support and helpful''' information *This information may reference information with-in or external to PCUG. *Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, how-tos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. *<font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === *PCUG general or publicity info is found in the PCUG Website (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar'') *General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === *'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === *focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! 02825b77c279b7b6d73a721f8b311254cc642824 6 77 383 2012-08-12T01:49:20Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 75 384 347 2012-08-12T01:53:10Z Pblair 10 /* The learning curve */ wikitext text/x-wiki When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs (including PCUG, whose web pages and wikis are all 'hosted')) and is quite affordable. The TIP wiki gives some idea of cost at http://tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Hosting ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) ... all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. [[Category:Technical Info]] 34fbbc96378e2c2fceba1b70f80a06a67dbd3e2e 411 384 2012-08-16T06:57:31Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs (including PCUG, whose web pages and wikis are all 'hosted')) and is quite affordable. The TIP wiki gives some idea of cost at http://tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Hosting ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) ... all for '''free''' and Mac (at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-macosx.html). Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. [[Category:Technical Info]] e7f9d3aa41ab5159ceae24e33ed387484ea4dcd6 412 411 2012-08-16T06:58:30Z Pblair 10 /* The learning curve */ wikitext text/x-wiki When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs (including PCUG, whose web pages and wikis are all 'hosted')) and is quite affordable. The TIP wiki gives some idea of cost at http://tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Hosting ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) and Mac (at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-macosx.html).. all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. [[Category:Technical Info]] 31b48c8cf029fe09574587b602f6cd9126c0472f 0 7 385 344 2012-08-12T06:21:51Z Pblair 10 /* Web hosting */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Please note that information related specifically to accessing and using the PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services are provided on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]. Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 23ca5c2ad403c85f015cfeb2eaa6066ed5a9634d 398 385 2012-08-12T10:29:38Z Lpb 2 Tweak wording of TIP wiki info wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Members are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the Help and HowTo guides, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of Users Helping Users. Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 8099a7ede32662a2af5fc529325938fe25811e7f 399 398 2012-08-12T10:31:58Z Lpb 2 Tweak contributions wording wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 532d76d35b875658132ce111506bcf93dfc654e9 406 399 2012-08-13T03:16:32Z Pblair 10 /* Web hosting */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 11f2fa135d704608ab5b633d8f4a865c63270197 0 78 386 2012-08-12T06:22:20Z Pblair 10 Created page with "[[File:Xampp_icon.jpg|left|60px]]When you installed XAMPP it started automatically. But you have reset your computer, and now need to restart XAMPP. You will have a desktop ico…" wikitext text/x-wiki [[File:Xampp_icon.jpg|left|60px]]When you installed XAMPP it started automatically. But you have reset your computer, and now need to restart XAMPP. You will have a desktop icon, something like this. Click on it to open the Control Panel.[[File:xampp_start.jpg|right|300px]] This is a small part of the Control Panel, the bit that matters. The buttons under 'Actions' will be set at "Start", so click the first 2 (the ones opposite Apache and MySQL) and watch them become active. There will be port numbers displayed, and a green blush on the module names will indicate that everything is working. To check, open a browser and type '''localhost''' in the URL box. You should see the XAMPP welcome screen. However, there is a gotcha here. If you have Skype running, Apache may not activate. This is because they both like to use port 80, and won't play nicely together. The solution is to exit from Skype while you are using XAMPP. ==== Action at last! ==== Let's try some practical things - but first, a few things you need to know. [[File:htdocs.jpg|right||140px]] * The URL of the server is '''localhost''' (or 127.0.0.1) * Your directory tree will have a folder named '''xampp'''. * In that folder will be a sub-folder named '''htdocs'''. All files, scripts and so on that you want to reach by way of a browser are stored in the '''htdocs''' folder * The system will always look for and action any file named 'index' - eg, index.html or index.php, before it does anything else. Let's make the traditional HTML file...open a text editor and type: <html> <head> <title>My first page</title> </head> <body> Hello World! </body> </html> Now to save your file in the '''htdocs''' subfolder. Save it first as ''index.html'' - and to see your work, open your bowser and type '''localhost'''. Now delete index.html, and save the file in htdocs as ''test.html''. To see it now, you point your browser to '''localhost/test.html''' Let's try a PHP script. It doesn't matter that you don't know PHP, I'll provide one. Go back to your text editor and type into a new file: <?php phpinfo(); ?> Save that in '''htdocs''' as ''index.php'' - and then open your browser and type '''localhost'''. This will show you a page (or 6) of the setup information of PHP within XAMPP (or LAMPP). Now delete index.php and resave the file as ''info.php''. Back to your browser, and type '''localhost/info.php''' I'm sure you can see the difference caused by the name change. The real point, though, is to suggest to you to be very wary of the word 'index' in file names! ac883d3a45faf2cf0079d846154390700b4bf654 390 386 2012-08-12T06:24:46Z Pblair 10 /* Action at last! */ wikitext text/x-wiki [[File:Xampp_icon.jpg|left|60px]]When you installed XAMPP it started automatically. But you have reset your computer, and now need to restart XAMPP. You will have a desktop icon, something like this. Click on it to open the Control Panel.[[File:xampp_start.jpg|right|300px]] This is a small part of the Control Panel, the bit that matters. The buttons under 'Actions' will be set at "Start", so click the first 2 (the ones opposite Apache and MySQL) and watch them become active. There will be port numbers displayed, and a green blush on the module names will indicate that everything is working. To check, open a browser and type '''localhost''' in the URL box. You should see the XAMPP welcome screen. However, there is a gotcha here. If you have Skype running, Apache may not activate. This is because they both like to use port 80, and won't play nicely together. The solution is to exit from Skype while you are using XAMPP. ==== Action at last! ==== Let's try some practical things - but first, a few things you need to know. [[File:htdocs.jpg|right||140px]] * The URL of the server is '''localhost''' (or 127.0.0.1) * Your directory tree will have a folder named '''xampp'''. * In that folder will be a sub-folder named '''htdocs'''. All files, scripts and so on that you want to reach by way of a browser are stored in the '''htdocs''' folder * The system will always look for and action any file named 'index' - eg, index.html or index.php, before it does anything else. Let's make the traditional HTML file...open a text editor and type: <html> <head> <title>My first page</title> </head> <body> Hello World! </body> </html> Now to save your file in the '''htdocs''' subfolder. Save it first as ''index.html'' - and to see your work, open your bowser and type '''localhost'''. Now delete index.html, and save the file in htdocs as ''test.html''. To see it now, you point your browser to '''localhost/test.html''' Let's try a PHP script. It doesn't matter that you don't know PHP, I'll provide one. Go back to your text editor and type into a new file: <?php phpinfo(); ?> Save that in '''htdocs''' as ''index.php'' - and then open your browser and type '''localhost'''. This will show you a page (or 6) of the setup information of PHP within XAMPP (or LAMPP). Now delete index.php and resave the file as ''info.php''. Back to your browser, and type '''localhost/info.php''' I'm sure you can see the difference caused by the name change. The real point, though, is to suggest to you to be very wary of the word 'index' in file names! [[Category:Technical Info]] 98cc4e61ef3d58d2e2ec932a3d7dbea36b55b44c 6 79 387 2012-08-12T06:22:50Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 80 388 2012-08-12T06:23:04Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 81 389 2012-08-12T06:23:17Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 4 30 391 64 2012-08-12T06:51:23Z Lpb 2 Copy descriptive text from Krja's alt main page wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, including current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === :This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. :To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). :You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. :If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Otherwise, further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. :Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. For these, either edit an existing page, or add your new page into the relevant location on one of the main navigation pages. :If you wish to make other than minor, editorial, changes to key navigation pages (such as the [[Main Page]] or various pages immediately below it, please create a draft of your proposed changes on a new page, and then ask for this to be reviewed by the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee]. === Viewing Wiki === :You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. :Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === :Authoritative information on the PCUG, its aims, activities, benefits, and publicity material, may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website] (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar''). === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === :'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === :This wiki focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! [[Category:General]] 923ba80b07d7c8862770a86a5f0336cd8c6b99a3 394 391 2012-08-12T07:05:54Z Lpb 2 Tweak wording on nav page edits. wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, including current news and notices, information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources, and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === :This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. :To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). :You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. :If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Otherwise, further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. :Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. For these, either edit an existing page, or add your new page into the relevant location on one of the main navigation pages. :If you wish to make other than minor, editorial, changes to key navigation pages, such as the [[Main Page]] or various pages immediately below it, please create a draft of your proposed changes on a new page, and then ask for this to be reviewed by the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee]. Please note that we do not wish to discourage such proposals, but because they can significantly affect the usability of the site for all, and because we have spent some time creating the current structure, we do wish to encourage discussion and trial of such changes first. === Viewing Wiki === :You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. :Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === :Authoritative information on the PCUG, its aims, activities, benefits, and publicity material, may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website] (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar''). === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === :'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === :This wiki focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! [[Category:General]] d801b02677e684ed0b92257ebbdc0f9d05d01616 395 394 2012-08-12T07:13:59Z Lpb 2 more edits of descriptive wording wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other on a range of topics. These include: * current news and notices * information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation * various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources * and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === :This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. :To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). :You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. :If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. Otherwise, further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. :Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. For these, either edit an existing page, or add your new page into the relevant location on one of the main navigation pages. :If you wish to make other than minor, editorial, changes to key navigation pages, such as the [[Main Page]] or various pages immediately below it, please create a draft of your proposed changes on a new page, and then ask for this to be reviewed by the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee]. Please note that we do not wish to discourage such proposals, but because they can significantly affect the usability of the site for all, and because we have spent some time creating the current structure, we do wish to encourage discussion and trial of such changes first. === Viewing Wiki === :You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. :Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === :Authoritative information on the PCUG, its aims, activities, benefits, and publicity material, may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website] (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar''). === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === :'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === :This wiki focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! [[Category:General]] 0836ce6958c863d3e11763b1864e3e47867a77eb 14 82 392 2012-08-12T06:52:25Z Lpb 2 create wikitext text/x-wiki Pages with information about this wiki in general. 699b29ecac93d2374c37bb27fb1174d74ad4cf2a 4 28 400 62 2012-08-12T10:33:47Z Lpb 2 Add category wiki wikitext text/x-wiki Please refer to the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-privacy-policy/ PCUG Privacy Policy] [[Category:General]] fb921e74e52825a8bf916b110be6c064f17aaec3 4 11 402 20 2012-08-12T10:35:34Z Lpb 2 Add category tag wikitext text/x-wiki see the [[News and Notices]] page for details of various PCUG and TIP notices [[Category:General]] 4d87c3ec8a9ee66e2c9d09cbcfa353a137329428 6 83 403 2012-08-13T03:13:55Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 84 404 2012-08-13T03:14:12Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 85 405 2012-08-13T03:14:30Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 86 407 2012-08-13T03:16:43Z Pblair 10 Created page with "Time to try something more challenging, one with an outcome that you can appreciate and use. The task is to install WordPress (WP for short) on your home server. WP is a content…" wikitext text/x-wiki Time to try something more challenging, one with an outcome that you can appreciate and use. The task is to install WordPress (WP for short) on your home server. WP is a content management system (CMS) and was written to make it easy to set up a blog. As so often happens, users found that it was also very easy to use WP to create attractive and functional websites even if they had never done this previously. WP is actually very easy to use, very adaptable - even the PCUG website uses it, so there's a good reference for it. Let's get to work. The first task is to get the WP software. Go to [http://www.wordpress.org], and download the current version. It is a bit under 5MB in its present form, and comes in .zip and .tar.gz formats. Choose the appropriate one for you. Having stored the package, break it out from its compressed format. Now start XAMPP, go to the htdocs sub-folder and make a directory..being inventive, I'll call mine '''test''' Copy the files and folders of the package to the '''test''' folder. If you were doing this on a distant server, you would FTP the files, but here you just copy them. A distinct advantage... WordPress uses a MySQL database to hold all its content, so we need to create one for it. This introduces phpMyAdmin. [[File:pma.jpg|right]]Open a web browser and revisit '''localhost''' to see the Welcome screen again. Look down the left-hand column for phpMyAdmin and click on it. Or (for future reference) type '''localhost/phpmyadmin''' in your browser. phpMyAdmin is a tool for managing MySQL databases. It provides the means to make (and drop) databases, and make the tables that hold the data. For now, it is enough to know that we can make an empty database to use with WP. Let's do that. [[file:pma_create.jpg|left|500px]]This is the top part of the phpMyAdmin screen that you will have open. I've already populated the example, having selected a name for the database, a text collation (this ensures we get a language of choice). Then click on Create. The screen will signal that the database is being created, and if you check the left-hand column, you will see the new entry. Now we go back to our file window. Go to htdocs/test/ and search for a file named ''wp-config-sample.php'' and open it in a text editor. About 10 lines down you will need to tell WP how to find the database. Make the lines look like this: // ** MySQL settings - You can get this info from your web host ** // /** The name of the database for WordPress */ define('DB_NAME', 'wordpress'); /** MySQL database username */ define('DB_USER', 'root'); /** MySQL database password */ define('DB_PASSWORD', ''); /** MySQL hostname */ define('DB_HOST', 'localhost'); /** Database Charset to use in creating database tables. */ define('DB_CHARSET', 'utf8'); Now save the amended file as ''wp-config.php'', then close the text editor. As this is a local server, the username is the default 'root' and there is no need for a password. OK, we are ready to roll. Back to your browser, and type in '''localhost/test/wp-admin/install.php''' and WordPress will take over and do just about everything else for you. [[File:wp_install2.jpg|none|500px]]The first chore is to personalize your setup. Give your new site a name, change the admin name if you like, and select a password. Pop in your email address. If this was a live site, one open to the world, you could advertise it or not by ticking or unticking the last box. Then just click the 'Install WordPress' button. Don't sit back too far, because the installation will be over in a flash, and you will see [[File:wp_success.jpg|none|450px]] Congratulations. WordPress will have created an example site for you, so go to your browser and type '''localhost/test''' to view it. You will also see there a place to log in, which will take you to the engine room (the 'back end') of WP so you can edit content. There's a whole world of usefulness in having a home server, and being able to work in your own time - without the need for an internet connection - on your own projects. '''Break Glass for Help''': [mailto:pblair@pcug.org.au Paul] 88846f47ccd01bf68ddc39fe4d99b400ab31441a 409 407 2012-08-13T03:18:27Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Time to try something more challenging, one with an outcome that you can appreciate and use. The task is to install WordPress (WP for short) on your home server. WP is a content management system (CMS) and was written to make it easy to set up a blog. As so often happens, users found that it was also very easy to use WP to create attractive and functional websites even if they had never done this previously. WP is actually very easy to use, very adaptable - even the PCUG website uses it, so there's a good reference for it. Let's get to work. The first task is to get the WP software. Go to [http://www.wordpress.org], and download the current version. It is a bit under 5MB in its present form, and comes in .zip and .tar.gz formats. Choose the appropriate one for you. Having stored the package, break it out from its compressed format. Now start XAMPP, go to the htdocs sub-folder and make a directory..being inventive, I'll call mine '''test''' Copy the files and folders of the package to the '''test''' folder. If you were doing this on a distant server, you would FTP the files, but here you just copy them. A distinct advantage... WordPress uses a MySQL database to hold all its content, so we need to create one for it. This introduces phpMyAdmin. [[File:pma.jpg|right]]Open a web browser and revisit '''localhost''' to see the Welcome screen again. Look down the left-hand column for phpMyAdmin and click on it. Or (for future reference) type '''localhost/phpmyadmin''' in your browser. phpMyAdmin is a tool for managing MySQL databases. It provides the means to make (and drop) databases, and make the tables that hold the data. For now, it is enough to know that we can make an empty database to use with WP. Let's do that. [[file:pma_create.jpg|left|500px]]This is the top part of the phpMyAdmin screen that you will have open. I've already populated the example, having selected a name for the database, a text collation (this ensures we get a language of choice). Then click on Create. The screen will signal that the database is being created, and if you check the left-hand column, you will see the new entry. Now we go back to our file window. Go to htdocs/test/ and search for a file named ''wp-config-sample.php'' and open it in a text editor. About 10 lines down you will need to tell WP how to find the database. Make the lines look like this: // ** MySQL settings - You can get this info from your web host ** // /** The name of the database for WordPress */ define('DB_NAME', 'wordpress'); /** MySQL database username */ define('DB_USER', 'root'); /** MySQL database password */ define('DB_PASSWORD', ''); /** MySQL hostname */ define('DB_HOST', 'localhost'); /** Database Charset to use in creating database tables. */ define('DB_CHARSET', 'utf8'); Now save the amended file as ''wp-config.php'', then close the text editor. As this is a local server, the username is the default 'root' and there is no need for a password. OK, we are ready to roll. Back to your browser, and type in '''localhost/test/wp-admin/install.php''' and WordPress will take over and do just about everything else for you. [[File:wp_install2.jpg|none|500px]]The first chore is to personalize your setup. Give your new site a name, change the admin name if you like, and select a password. Pop in your email address. If this was a live site, one open to the world, you could advertise it or not by ticking or unticking the last box. Then just click the 'Install WordPress' button. Don't sit back too far, because the installation will be over in a flash, and you will see [[File:wp_success.jpg|none|450px]] Congratulations. WordPress will have created an example site for you, so go to your browser and type '''localhost/test''' to view it. You will also see there a place to log in, which will take you to the engine room (the 'back end') of WP so you can edit content. There's a whole world of usefulness in having a home server, and being able to work in your own time - without the need for an internet connection - on your own projects. '''Break Glass for Help''': [mailto:pblair@pcug.org.au Paul] [[Category:Technical Info]] 97804cffbafdfbad782c4a76ef36c1f75d7865b7 6 87 408 2012-08-13T03:17:15Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 8 19 410 149 2012-08-14T12:21:00Z Lpb 2 Help -> Wiki Help wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** News and Notices|News and Notices ** Activities and Opportunities|Activities/Opportunities ** Newsletters|Newsletters ** Technical Info|Technical Info ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|Wiki Help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES b79018967a699683d53a659e47a5abf5ec40c6bc 0 6 413 271 2012-08-17T13:59:17Z Lpb 2 Add NOOZ_Aug12.pdf link wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 0532d08269f9d666717270af0a025d4b8225403a 0 17 414 30 2012-08-18T07:50:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Windows 7, 64 bit Windows *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS and although work-arounds are available, these are the provence of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files * [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) *if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog *which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 04:26, 21 April 2012 (UTC) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 5bfe2e51da431bf45cae86f3548b2fd1a28f7480 415 414 2012-08-18T08:02:59Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Windows 7, 64 bit Windows *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS and although work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 65fd02eb78848fbd8e665cd20ee62adf602aafaf 0 15 416 28 2012-08-18T08:15:48Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : == Enable External Video Output in the BIOS == *power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode. On a Dell, for example, press F2 at start-up. *find any options for external video output. Not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level. Note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. *ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" *Save, then exit Setup == Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card == *note that this is done at Operating System level. If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. *typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent **if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that ***a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display ***proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD *it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices **most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. **the Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. **the Training Room projector, for example, does not handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: ***resolution 1024 x 768 ***vertical refresh rate 60 Hz **the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. *there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" **within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays * Save the settings and exit Control Panel. == Use External Power Supply == *the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available **if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods == Activate Output to External Display/Projector == *on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination and can be done at any time after the notebook has booted. Continuing with the Dell example, the combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8. Each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: **internal LCD only **external display only **internal LCD plus external display *note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. == Repeat Step 2 for other Operating Systems == *step 2 is the only setting which is Operating System dependent *step 2 may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. 1. It has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: **try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. **if so, then revisit "Control Panel" at step 2 above and check that the settings for the second display are as above. **in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows ***with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario 2. The cable which connects the projector to a notebook has a VGA connector only. Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 23:24, 6 February 2010 (UTC) Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : == Enable External Video Output in the BIOS == *power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode. On a Dell, for example, press F2 at start-up. *find any options for external video output. Not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level. Note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. *ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" *Save, then exit Setup == Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card == *note that this is done at Operating System level. If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. *typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent **if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that ***a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display ***proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD *it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices **most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. **the Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. **the Training Room projector, for example, does not handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: ***resolution 1024 x 768 ***vertical refresh rate 60 Hz **the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. *there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" **within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays * Save the settings and exit Control Panel. == Use External Power Supply == *the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available **if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods == Activate Output to External Display/Projector == *on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination and can be done at any time after the notebook has booted. Continuing with the Dell example, the combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8. Each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: **internal LCD only **external display only **internal LCD plus external display *note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. == Repeat Step 2 for other Operating Systems == *step 2 is the only setting which is Operating System dependent *step 2 may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. #It has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #**try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #**if so, then revisit "Control Panel" at step 2 above and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #**in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #***with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 142145d18bd08c6cf4551fa04fa25b1f555d97e8 417 416 2012-08-18T23:25:19Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overvies == Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6a493f6455d724bd96c2c129e6b1ee6a5993a577 418 417 2012-08-18T23:25:41Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] f03c0f4a3ac38dc736ebf9a4011cbf4b7446b9d0 0 4 419 354 2012-08-18T23:54:40Z Lpb 2 Update TIP move notice wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> == '''TIP Equipment Moved - Dialup Unavailable - Sat 18 August, 2012''' == ''''''Item Updated: 19 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As recently announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new TransACT server room, and restored most services - including broadband Internet access, and mail & web services. Unfortunately, TransACT failed to migrate our dialup phone lines along with all the other services to the new location, so we are currently unable to provide dialin Internet access until they act to correct this. We currently have not been advised when this will occur. We apologise for this, but unfortunately it is not something we can correct. Thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d99fd774956efc1a46a160f7387ed93ac6e6eada 428 419 2012-08-20T00:02:14Z Lpb 2 Update TIP move notice wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 1 July 2012'''''<br/> The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are changing to Monday, Wednesday & Friday. The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays and Sundays, pending available volunteer staff. (Please note the Office is closed Saturdays). Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2]<br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] cb2806c137519a11f4658e7466531f43424a99a6 437 428 2012-08-22T02:52:06Z Offcmngr 6 /* PCUG Office Hours */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 2fa6927b920ca98126997b58f7099f947b0408f5 438 437 2012-08-22T02:55:57Z Offcmngr 6 office hours wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 21 August 2012'''''<br/> *The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. *The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, the week-end office arrangements are under review, with Sunday staffing arrangements on hold until further notice. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. *For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 02June2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Training room has recently been refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups. Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 3489c9348e5a132bcc078e42de4025ca1e411d78 439 438 2012-08-22T02:57:44Z Offcmngr 6 /* PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs) */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 21 August 2012'''''<br/> *The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. *The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, the week-end office arrangements are under review, with Sunday staffing arrangements on hold until further notice. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. *For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] f18ac3d29668027fc736794a9815f3d0f5156e7c 440 439 2012-08-22T02:59:26Z Offcmngr 6 training room hire wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 21 August 2012'''''<br/> *The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. *The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, the week-end office arrangements are under review, with Sunday staffing arrangements on hold until further notice. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. *For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 21 August 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] c1a01b685d7e4e373e17b0dc2bea53607e2095d9 0 16 420 29 2012-08-19T01:35:59Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700;">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". Popular burner software Nero and Deepburner have this option. If in doubt, get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that. It makes the operation foolproof, because its '''only''' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD.''' '''In Windows 7, locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options - click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD. To be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box'''.</span> |} dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media (most burner software will cope with this). Doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. == Writing Bootable USB/SD == === Writing ISO Files === #this method is suitable for beginners #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' === Writing ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media, as above #*but require this alternative procedure to achive their main advamtage of typically booting much faster #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red;">execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten</span> |} ==Booting from Media== Booting from CD/DVD/USB/SD drives is disabled, by default, on many computers as a precaution against malware #on modern PC it can be temporarily selected by pressing a key (usually F11, but sometimes F12) at boot #*Then select the relevant drive from the menu presented. #**"CDROM" for ''internal'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for ''external'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for USB drive written from standard dotISO #**"USB HDD" for USB drive written from hybrid dotISO #**"SD" for ''internal'' SD drive #on modern PC it can be enabled persistently via CMOS setup and setting the above devices to '''ENABLED''' in the boot sequence --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 11:35, 19 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 454de61dca1bd39b751bcf3c974b7b087f551a1e 421 420 2012-08-19T01:49:18Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". Popular burner software Nero and Deepburner have this option. If in doubt, get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that. It makes the operation foolproof, because its '''only''' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD.'''.</span> style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''In Windows 7, locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options - click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD. To be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box'''.</span> |} dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media (most burner software will cope with this). Doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. == Writing Bootable USB/SD == === Writing ISO Files === #this method is suitable for beginners #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' === Writing ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media, as above #*but require this alternative procedure to achive their main advamtage of typically booting much faster #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten</span> |} ==Booting from Media== Booting from CD/DVD/USB/SD drives is disabled, by default, on many computers as a precaution against malware #on modern PC it can be temporarily selected by pressing a key (usually F11, but sometimes F12) at boot #*Then select the relevant drive from the menu presented. #**"CDROM" for ''internal'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for ''external'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for USB drive written from standard dotISO #**"USB HDD" for USB drive written from hybrid dotISO #**"SD" for ''internal'' SD drive #on modern PC it can be enabled persistently via CMOS setup and setting the above devices to '''ENABLED''' in the boot sequence --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 11:35, 19 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 29a5773837fe759ca7cf64fbb4c9501b7f3c0d37 422 421 2012-08-19T01:54:31Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". Popular burner software Nero and Deepburner have this option. If in doubt, get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that. It makes the operation foolproof, because its '''only''' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD. In Windows 7, locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options - click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD. To be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box'''.</span> |} dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media (most burner software will cope with this). Doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. == Writing Bootable USB/SD == === Writing ISO Files === #this method is suitable for beginners #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' === Writing ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media, as above #*but require this alternative procedure to achive their main advamtage of typically booting much faster #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten</span> |} ==Booting from Media== Booting from CD/DVD/USB/SD drives is disabled, by default, on many computers as a precaution against malware #on modern PC it can be temporarily selected by pressing a key (usually F11, but sometimes F12) at boot #*Then select the relevant drive from the menu presented. #**"CDROM" for ''internal'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for ''external'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for USB drive written from standard dotISO #**"USB HDD" for USB drive written from hybrid dotISO #**"SD" for ''internal'' SD drive #on modern PC it can be enabled persistently via CMOS setup and setting the above devices to '''ENABLED''' in the boot sequence --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 11:35, 19 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 282623d49dc44154c3a2db8aa8ddf14cd1160c4f 423 422 2012-08-19T02:39:29Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". Popular burner software Nero and Deepburner have this option. If in doubt, get the product</span> ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">and install that. It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD. ---- <span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''In Windows 7, locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options - click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD. To be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box'''.</span> |} dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media (most burner software will cope with this). Doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. == Writing Bootable USB/SD == === Writing ISO Files === #this method is suitable for beginners #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' === Writing ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media, as above #*but require this alternative procedure to achive their main advamtage of typically booting much faster #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== Booting from CD/DVD/USB/SD drives is disabled, by default, on many computers as a precaution against malware #on modern PC it can be temporarily selected by pressing a key (usually F11, but sometimes F12) at boot #*Then select the relevant drive from the menu presented. #**"CDROM" for ''internal'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for ''external'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for USB drive written from standard dotISO #**"USB HDD" for USB drive written from hybrid dotISO #**"SD" for ''internal'' SD drive #on modern PC it can be enabled persistently via CMOS setup and setting the above devices to '''ENABLED''' in the boot sequence --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 11:35, 19 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2aaf2662f69cfbbf1a3cd7d5471bcb638dcfc4e6 443 423 2012-08-24T02:09:47Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". Popular burner software Nero and Deepburner have this option. If in doubt, get the product</span> ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">and install that. It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD. ---- <span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''In Windows 7, locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options - click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD. To be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box'''.</span> |} dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media (most burner software will cope with this). Doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Windows users only #*other users see #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Writing ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media, as above #*but require this alternative procedure to achive their main advamtage of typically booting much faster #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== Booting from CD/DVD/USB/SD drives is disabled, by default, on many computers as a precaution against malware #on modern PC it can be temporarily selected by pressing a key (usually F11, but sometimes F12) at boot #*Then select the relevant drive from the menu presented. #**"CDROM" for ''internal'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for ''external'' optical drive #**"USB CDROM" for USB drive written from standard dotISO #**"USB HDD" for USB drive written from hybrid dotISO #**"SD" for ''internal'' SD drive #on modern PC it can be enabled persistently via CMOS setup and setting the above devices to '''ENABLED''' in the boot sequence --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] cf4fd9ab76d7d4a6d64a2232ae9eac74903a4e10 447 443 2012-08-24T03:41:38Z Rpeters 14 replaced text in "Booting from Media" with an internal link to common instructions wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". Popular burner software Nero and Deepburner have this option. If in doubt, get the product</span> ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">and install that. It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD. ---- <span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''In Windows 7, locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options - click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD. To be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box'''.</span> |} dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media (most burner software will cope with this). Doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Windows users only #*other users see #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Writing ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media, as above #*but require this alternative procedure to achive their main advamtage of typically booting much faster #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] b1ceccdab58549b85365da17eb37e30016fda50a 0 7 424 406 2012-08-19T02:56:20Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */starting points for beginners wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 508e7d41815d81c7534fa9b4a9b13d39b1f3138b 433 424 2012-08-21T06:02:46Z Pblair 10 /* Internet */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] f9b93c60198d90a7fc38a951b995e5d9ba27a9c3 441 433 2012-08-24T00:59:08Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] c32a91cac81663c04e4da128ccf76880f0b63118 444 441 2012-08-24T02:12:03Z Rpeters 14 /* DVDs and Bootable USBs */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] de7e034474b55c6f3602e969cfe173183b771b05 451 444 2012-08-24T07:32:18Z Rpeters 14 /* Software */ added category for backup wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] cf98c1672d0306fc7f56819649068e6b138cb787 452 451 2012-08-24T07:53:57Z Rpeters 14 /* Backup */ added outline of rsnapshot wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == === rnapshot === #The philosophy behind rsnapshot is tha backups happen regularly and reliably '''only''' if fully automated #*rsnapshot handles the "how, what & where" #*cron handles the "when" #best installed from your Operating System's media/repositories - alternatively #*http://www.rsnapshot.org/downloads.html #'''essential''' - read the HOWTO ==== rnapshot for Windows ==== *probably not feasible because Windows filesystems do not provide the required functions *cwRsync goes part way http://www.rsync.net/resources/howto/windows_rsync.html == Strictly for Geeks == * --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:53, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] fbf36f9f994192e592a0908b82e068f0003e9cd1 453 452 2012-08-24T08:04:43Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== == Getting Technical == === rnapshot === #The philosophy behind rsnapshot is tha backups happen regularly and reliably '''only''' if fully automated #*rsnapshot handles the "how, what & where" #*cron handles the "when" #best installed from your Operating System's media/repositories - alternatively #*http://www.rsnapshot.org/downloads.html #'''essential''' - read the HOWTO ==== rnapshot for Windows ==== *probably not feasible because Windows filesystems do not provide the required functions *cwRsync goes part way http://www.rsync.net/resources/howto/windows_rsync.html == Strictly for Geeks == * --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:53, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 4582861be047ae7786977d5251377f54de4a1965 454 453 2012-08-24T08:04:58Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Technical */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== == Strictly for Geeks == * --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:53, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 654999611f2103a2e57ef15bcad037507b55447f 455 454 2012-08-24T08:06:19Z Rpeters 14 /* Strictly for Geeks */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 9101eb7f990de771baf8f7daa0e62b53fd3f1a18 456 455 2012-08-24T08:09:49Z Rpeters 14 /* Software */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a4e0f41c0cc6d8bff38738e0c1d28d41ec538f02 0 88 425 2012-08-19T03:59:23Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "== For Beginners == One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying vari…" wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for those having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP (must ensure the download is '''directly''' from TIP server) #Ubuntu == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for those having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP (must ensure the download is '''directly''' from TIP server) #Debian #Ubuntu === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ff9b70135508c304d06527e9f793f2a8446ef2bb 460 425 2012-08-25T23:15:12Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for those having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP (must ensure the download is '''directly''' from TIP server) #Ubuntu == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for those having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP (must ensure the download is '''directly''' from TIP server) #Debian #Ubuntu === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 07f92ffd9f051804cf63a8ca9c2ff3224f866d04 6 89 426 2012-08-19T23:16:02Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 86 427 409 2012-08-19T23:18:24Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Time to try something more challenging, one with an outcome that you can appreciate and use. The task is to install WordPress (WP for short) on your home server. WP is a content management system (CMS) and was written to make it easy to set up a blog. As so often happens, users found that it was also very easy to use WP to create attractive and functional websites even if they had never done this previously. WP is actually very easy to use, very adaptable - even the PCUG website uses it, so there's a good reference for it. Let's get to work. The first task is to get the WP software. Go to [http://www.wordpress.org], and download the current version. It is a bit under 5MB in its present form, and comes in .zip and .tar.gz formats. Choose the appropriate one for you. Having stored the package, break it out from its compressed format. Now start XAMPP, go to the htdocs sub-folder and make a directory..being inventive, I'll call mine '''test''' Copy the files and folders of the package to the '''test''' folder. If you were doing this on a distant server, you would FTP the files, but here you just copy them. A distinct advantage... WordPress uses a MySQL database to hold all its content, so we need to create one for it. This introduces phpMyAdmin. [[File:pma.jpg|right]]Open a web browser and revisit '''localhost''' to see the Welcome screen again. Look down the left-hand column for phpMyAdmin and click on it. Or (for future reference) type '''localhost/phpmyadmin''' in your browser. phpMyAdmin is a tool for managing MySQL databases. It provides the means to make (and drop) databases, and make the tables that hold the data. For now, it is enough to know that we can make an empty database to use with WP. Let's do that. [[file:pma_create.jpg|left|500px]]This is the top part of the phpMyAdmin screen that you will have open. I've already populated the example, having selected a name for the database, a text collation (this ensures we get a language of choice). Then click on Create. The screen will signal that the database is being created, and if you check the left-hand column, you will see the new entry. Now we go back to our file window. Go to htdocs/test/ and search for a file named ''wp-config-sample.php'' and open it in a text editor. About 10 lines down you will need to tell WP how to find the database. Make the lines look like this: // ** MySQL settings - You can get this info from your web host ** // /** The name of the database for WordPress */ define('DB_NAME', 'wordpress'); /** MySQL database username */ define('DB_USER', 'root'); /** MySQL database password */ define('DB_PASSWORD', ''); /** MySQL hostname */ define('DB_HOST', 'localhost'); /** Database Charset to use in creating database tables. */ define('DB_CHARSET', 'utf8'); Now save the amended file as ''wp-config.php'', then close the text editor. As this is a local server, the username is the default 'root' and there is no need for a password. OK, we are ready to roll. Back to your browser, and type in '''localhost/test/wp-admin/install.php''' and WordPress will take over and do just about everything else for you. [[File:wp_install2.jpg|none|500px]]The first chore is to personalize your setup. Give your new site a name, change the admin name if you like, and select a password. Pop in your email address. If this was a live site, one open to the world, you could advertise it or not by ticking or unticking the last box. Then just click the 'Install WordPress' button. Don't sit back too far, because the installation will be over in a flash, and you will see [[File:wp_success.jpg|none|450px]] Congratulations. WordPress will have created an example site for you, so go to your browser and type '''localhost/test''' to view it. You will also see there a place to log in, which will take you to the engine room (the 'back end') of WP so you can edit content. There's a whole world of usefulness in having a home server, and being able to work in your own time - without the need for an internet connection - on your own projects. [[File:surgery.gif]]'''Break Glass for Help''': [mailto:pblair@pcug.org.au Paul] [[Category:Technical Info]] e27ad519715a98a3acd9f032cce0bcb856b849f3 0 12 429 23 2012-08-21T01:57:49Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki The intention of this page is to provide a brief summary of settings that will enable the network and equipment at PCUG Centre to work with member's Linux computers. Similar settings should also work with Android devices, ChomeOS & MacOSX, but the author has no means of testing that. Most of these settings can be implemented by novice users. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === is not supported by peripherals at the Centre: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === Use the settings that are available from the Staffer at the Centre Your computer's WiFi must be configured to use WPA2 or WPA security. Older verions of the latter might not work. === Wired === If connecting via the Cat5 cable in the Multi-media room, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === Internet access should be available after connection to the LAN is achieved In order to use the file server and printers at the Centre, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *the firewall in the Internet Gateway at the Centre should provide adequate protection in this mode == Mirrors == Please use the mirror: http://mirror.internode.on.net/pub if possible. This is an '''unmetered''' download to PCUG Centre, at all times of day. == Printing == Both Lexmark printers in the main room are supported. Finding a suitable driver for the T632 may not be intuitive: *some implementations of CUPS do not include a driver explicitly for the T632 **it may variously be described as Optra T632, Optra C 632, T632 etc **the driver for a T640 model will provide adequate functionality *set as a "network printer" **Appsocket/Jetdirect protocol works **IP address of the printer should be found automatically by CUPS **use port 9100 *verify the settings for default options **tray1 & A4 paper are correct, but some distro of US origin may default to Letter size paper Alternatively, Linux can print to the above printer without having a driver installed on your computer: *Train04 must be booted to PCLinuxOS to provide network printing capablility **for this mode to work ***CUPS on your computer must be version #> 1.4.x ***CUPS on your computer must be configured to "use Printers shared by other computers" ***from URL http://localhost:631 on your computer go to the Administration tab to set this mode *then simply select the lex632 printer from the print menu of your application **it is often necessary to restart an application eg OpenOffice, Firefox etc, before it will recognize printers that have recently become visible on the network **see the article ''Network Printing via CUPS'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Projector == The projector is compatible and routinely used with Linux. *use the HDMI cable, if your computer has a suitable socket/adaptor *otherwise use the VGA cable **it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner in the media room is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. A set of Canonscan D660U entry level scanners are held in the store room and may be deployed by the Training Co-ordinator, for courses. These do have a SANE backend, but are slow and suitable mainly for training purposes. == Server == The server has plenty of disk space for member use, but this is accessible only via Windows SMB network. In order to access from Linux, an SMB '''client''' must be installed and configured on any Linux computer. YMMV with different Linuxes. *openSUSE **usually configured by default - file managers should find the only SMB domain deployed at the Centre - if not **from Yast, select Network Services, then Samba Client. The default Samba settings usually suffice for access to a Windows server *'buntu & derivatives **TBA == Training PC == Any member may use the installed Linux on any of the training room PC *please inform the staffer of your intended use Only open source Linux software is installed or stored on these computers. It may be copied by members. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 16ebbd11d221024e804f16328a6194f849462213 431 429 2012-08-21T02:18:17Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki The intention of this page is to provide a brief summary of settings that will enable the network and equipment at PCUG Centre to work with member's Linux computers. Similar settings should also work with Android devices, ChomeOS & MacOSX, but the author has no means of testing that. Most of these settings can be implemented by novice users. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === is not supported by peripherals at the Centre: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === Use the settings that are available from the Staffer at the Centre Your computer's WiFi must be configured to use WPA2 or WPA security. Older verions of the latter might not work. === Wired === If connecting via the Cat5 cable in the Multi-media room, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === Internet access should be available after connection to the LAN is achieved In order to use the file server and printers at the Centre, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *the firewall in the Internet Gateway at the Centre should provide adequate protection in this mode == Mirrors == Please use the mirror: http://mirror.internode.on.net/pub if possible. This is an '''unmetered''' download to PCUG Centre, at all times of day. == Printing == Both Lexmark printers in the main room are supported. Finding a suitable driver for the T632 may not be intuitive: *some implementations of CUPS do not include a driver explicitly for the T632 **it may variously be described as Optra T632, Optra C 632, T632 etc **the driver for a T640 model will provide adequate functionality *set as a "network printer" **Appsocket/Jetdirect protocol works **IP address of the printer should be found automatically by CUPS **use port 9100 *verify the settings for default options **tray1 & A4 paper are correct, but some distro of US origin may default to Letter size paper Alternatively, Linux can print to the above printer without having a driver installed on your computer: *Train04 must be booted to PCLinuxOS to provide network printing capablility **for this mode to work ***CUPS on your computer must be version #> 1.4.x ***CUPS on your computer must be configured to "use Printers shared by other computers" ***from URL http://localhost:631 on your computer go to the Administration tab to set this mode *then simply select the lex632 printer from the print menu of your application **it is often necessary to restart an application eg OpenOffice, Firefox etc, before it will recognize printers that have recently become visible on the network **see the article ''Network Printing via CUPS'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Projector == The projector is compatible and routinely used with Linux. *use the HDMI cable, if your computer has a suitable socket/adaptor *otherwise use the VGA cable **it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner in the media room is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. A set of Canonscan D660U entry level scanners are held in the store room and may be deployed by the Training Co-ordinator, for courses. These do have a SANE backend, but are slow and suitable mainly for training purposes. == Server == The server has plenty of disk space for member use, but this is accessible only via Windows SMB network. In order to access from Linux, an SMB '''client''' must be installed and configured on any Linux computer. YMMV with different Linuxes. *openSUSE **usually configured by default - file managers should find the only SMB domain deployed at the Centre - if not **from Yast, select Network Services, then Samba Client. The default Samba settings usually suffice for access to a Windows server *'buntu & derivatives **TBA == Training PC == Any member may use the installed Linux on any of the training room PC *please inform the staffer of your intended use Only open source Linux software is installed or stored on these computers. It may be copied by members. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:18, 21 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ca7d6fa9b32dd1690064ac8f91941d37b97240c3 432 431 2012-08-21T02:25:48Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki The intention of this page is to provide a brief summary of settings that will enable the network and equipment at PCUG Centre to work with member's Linux computers. Similar settings should also work with Android devices, ChomeOS & MacOSX, but the author has no means of testing that. Most of these settings can be implemented by novice users. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === is not supported by peripherals at the Centre: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === Use the settings that are available from the Staffer at the Centre Your computer's WiFi must be configured to use WPA2 or WPA security. Older verions of the latter might not work. === Wired === If connecting via the Cat5 cable in the Multi-media room, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === Internet access should be available after connection to the LAN is achieved In order to use the file server and printers at the Centre, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *the firewall in the Internet Gateway at the Centre should provide adequate protection in this mode == Mirrors == Please use the mirror: http://mirror.internode.on.net/pub if possible. This is an '''unmetered''' download to PCUG Centre, at all times of day. == Printing == Both Lexmark printers in the main room are supported. === With Printer Driver === Finding a suitable driver for the T632 may not be intuitive: *some implementations of CUPS do not include a driver explicitly for the T632 **it may variously be described as Optra T632, Optra C 632, T632 etc **the driver for a T640 model will provide adequate functionality *set as a "network printer" **Appsocket/Jetdirect protocol works **IP address of the printer should be found automatically by CUPS **use port 9100 *verify the settings for default options **tray1 & A4 paper are correct, but some distro of US origin may default to Letter size paper === Without Printer Driver === Alternatively, Linux can print to the above printer without having a driver installed on your computer: *Train04 must be booted to PCLinuxOS to provide network printing capablility **for this mode to work ***CUPS on your computer must be version #> 1.4.x ***CUPS on your computer must be configured to "use Printers shared by other computers" ***from URL http://localhost:631 on your computer go to the Administration tab to set this mode *then simply select the lex632 printer from the print menu of your application **it is often necessary to restart an application eg OpenOffice, Firefox etc, before it will recognize printers that have recently become visible on the network **see the article ''Network Printing via CUPS'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Projector == The projector is compatible and routinely used with Linux. === Cables === *use the HDMI cable, if your computer has a suitable socket/adaptor *otherwise use the VGA cable **it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *use the remote control ofhte projector to select the input source, according to cable type === Settings === *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner in the media room is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. A set of Canonscan D660U entry level scanners are held in the store room and may be deployed by the Training Co-ordinator, for courses. These do have a SANE backend, but are slow and suitable mainly for training purposes. == Server == The server has plenty of disk space for member use, but this is accessible only via Windows SMB network. In order to access from Linux, an SMB '''client''' must be installed and configured on any Linux computer. YMMV with different Linuxes. *openSUSE **usually configured by default - file managers should find the only SMB domain deployed at the Centre - if not **from Yast, select Network Services, then Samba Client. The default Samba settings usually suffice for access to a Windows server *'buntu & derivatives **TBA == Training PC == Any member may use the installed Linux on any of the training room PC *please inform the staffer of your intended use Only open source Linux software is installed or stored on these computers. It may be copied by members. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:25, 21 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ed8b48ec62ef68bf75557437cd159453b5015e8d 0 18 430 32 2012-08-21T02:16:36Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Netbooks that are pre-installed with Linux are still available from specialist retailers. The price, availability and configuration might not be attractive. A plethora of suggestions will be found on the Internet for installing Linux on popular netbooks, that come with Windows XP/7 pre-installed. These procedures are provided as a convenient summary for our members and outline our experience with this process. == Caveats == === No Warranty === These procedures are provided in the hope that they may be useful, but with absolutely no warranty whatsoever Note, in particular, that: *if a computer is to be returned for service under supplier's warranty conditions then it may be necesary to restore the software to that which was pre-installed by the supplier *the market for second-hand netbooks not having Windows pre-installed is very limited It is not feasible, in a brief HOWTO, to cover the idiosyncracies of all models from all manufacturers. *the following procedures are know to be successful with various common models *but might not be successful with some obscure models See ''Prerequites'' below for suggested precautions. === Macbooks === The procedures, described herein, are '''not''' directly applicable to netbooks and other computers that are pre-installed with MacOS, which uses different firmware. Although it is possible to install specially compiled Linux on those devices, advice should be sought in an Apple forum. === Windows 8 Devices === All Windows 8 devices have a function in firmware that prevents other Operating Systems from booting. Consequently, although the options for creating space for Linux, described herein, will probably complete those might be to no avail. == Prequisites == These prerequisites are recommended for all ''Options'' outlined below, including the '''zero option''' #Boot to Windows and use the inbuilt utility to '''burn''' at least one copy of the recovery DVD\ #*supplier's guideline is that this be done at the '''first''' use of Windows on the netbook #**if done at a later stage, the DVD may not be identical to the original installation #ensure that you have an up-to-date backup, on external media, of any data within the Windows system == Options == === Overwrite Windows === #are you certain ? #so - you have done ''Prequisites'' above #all of the other ''Options'' below are beyond your skill/resources #are you '''still''' certain ? === Replace Hard Disk Drive === Argueably the most reliable way of retaining an unchanged Windows intallation, however: *requires substantial dissassembly of most netbooks, which is relatively difficult === Use USB HDD/SSD === Advantages *relatively quick solution *no change to installed Windows system Disadvantages *cost *toting a portable HDD somewhat defeats the purpose of a netbook *booting can be unreliable **must always use same USB socket **presence of other USB storage devices can prevent booting === Create Free Space on Existing Drive === ==== Gather Tools ==== #Software utiilities will be required to shrink at least one existing partition. A recent release of ''gparted'' is recommended and the most conventient way of obtaing this is on a PartedMagic or SystemrescueCD CD. #Few netbooks have CD/DVD readers. It will be necessary to either: #*borrow or purchase a USB CD/DVD drive or #*make a bootable USB memory device containing the utility software ==== Additional Backups (Optional) ==== #use "dd" to make an image of the unmounted HDD to a file on an external/network drive #use "clonezilla" or similar to clone either: #*entire HDD #*key partitions ==== Preliminaries ==== #Boot the netbook to Windows and then from the Control Panel: #*disable virtual RAM (swapper.exe/dat) #**? is there any such thing under Win 7 #*make a hard-copy note of the total size of the C: drive #*if the netbook has had more than trivial use with Windows, then '''de-fragment''' the entire C: drive #**be aware that this might take''' many''' hours ==== Count Existing Partitions ==== Case - 3 or fewer #Boot the netbook to the USB device containing the utility software #use gparted to shrink the Windows C: drive, to the extent desired #*this will usually be the largest partition, but will not be /dev/sda1 on all netbooks #*invariably NTFS filesystem #*cross-check with the size of the C: drive noted earlier Case - 4 Partitions #try your luck with gparted, as above - ''yes really'' #if after shrinking C: gparted is unable to create extra partition(s) then you will need to delete '''one''' pre-existing partition #*the '''only''' candidate is the "manufacturer's crud" partition, that contains optional utilities, games and other "freeware" === Don't Proceed (Zero Option) === If uncertain of your ability to compete one of the above options, other options include: #don't proceed #seek assistance #purchase separate hardware for a portable Linux system #*netbook having Linux pre-installed #*tablet computer, most of which have Linux/Android pre-installed, although the functionality is somewhat different from a netbook. == Laptops == A better option with Laptops can be to remove the original HDD/SSD and store it in a safe place. This procedure can readily be done by an end-user in most cases. Then install a replacement storage drive for use with Linux. Alternatively, the above procedures can be implemented == Desktops == Dual-booting Windows and Linux from the same storage device has many limitations including. *Windows continually overwriting LInux bootloader *configuration of bootloader is more complicated *choices for disk partitioning are constrained Better solutions for recent desktop computers are: *in the case of PC having Windows pre-installed, purchase and install a second HDD for exclusive use with Linux '''as well as''' a Linux bootloader **first check that the PC '''can''' boot a second HDD - this is usually selected via key F11/F12 at POST stage *get a generic PC, having no pre-installed software, assembled by a computer shop *purchase a brand-name PC, having no pre-installed software. The best known example is HP Proliant Microservers --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:16, 21 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] de7615a250d4a8a1a89571329b1d4deb6d171017 450 430 2012-08-24T03:59:10Z Rpeters 14 added internal link to common procedure for booting from external drives wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Netbooks that are pre-installed with Linux are still available from specialist retailers. The price, availability and configuration might not be attractive. A plethora of suggestions will be found on the Internet for installing Linux on popular netbooks, that come with Windows XP/7 pre-installed. These procedures are provided as a convenient summary for our members and outline our experience with this process. == Caveats == === No Warranty === These procedures are provided in the hope that they may be useful, but with absolutely no warranty whatsoever Note, in particular, that: *if a computer is to be returned for service under supplier's warranty conditions then it may be necesary to restore the software to that which was pre-installed by the supplier *the market for second-hand netbooks not having Windows pre-installed is very limited It is not feasible, in a brief HOWTO, to cover the idiosyncracies of all models from all manufacturers. *the following procedures are know to be successful with various common models *but might not be successful with some obscure models See ''Prerequites'' below for suggested precautions. === Macbooks === The procedures, described herein, are '''not''' directly applicable to netbooks and other computers that are pre-installed with MacOS, which uses different firmware. Although it is possible to install specially compiled Linux on those devices, advice should be sought in an Apple forum. === Windows 8 Devices === All Windows 8 devices have a function in firmware that prevents other Operating Systems from booting. Consequently, although the options for creating space for Linux, described herein, will probably complete those might be to no avail. == Prequisites == These prerequisites are recommended for all ''Options'' outlined below, including the '''zero option''' #Boot to Windows and use the inbuilt utility to '''burn''' at least one copy of the recovery DVD\ #*supplier's guideline is that this be done at the '''first''' use of Windows on the netbook #**if done at a later stage, the DVD may not be identical to the original installation #ensure that you have an up-to-date backup, on external media, of any data within the Windows system == Options == === Overwrite Windows === #are you certain ? #so - you have done ''Prequisites'' above #all of the other ''Options'' below are beyond your skill/resources #are you '''still''' certain ? === Replace Hard Disk Drive === Argueably the most reliable way of retaining an unchanged Windows intallation, however: *requires substantial dissassembly of most netbooks, which is relatively difficult === Use USB HDD/SSD === Advantages *relatively quick solution *no change to installed Windows system Disadvantages *cost *toting a portable HDD somewhat defeats the purpose of a netbook *booting can be unreliable **must always use same USB socket **presence of other USB storage devices can prevent booting === Create Free Space on Existing Drive === ==== Gather Tools ==== #Software utiilities will be required to shrink at least one existing partition. A recent release of ''gparted'' is recommended and the most conventient way of obtaing this is on a PartedMagic or SystemrescueCD CD. #Few netbooks have CD/DVD readers. It will be necessary to either: #*borrow or purchase a USB CD/DVD drive or #*make a bootable USB memory device containing the utility software ==== Additional Backups (Optional) ==== #use "dd" to make an image of the unmounted HDD to a file on an external/network drive #use "clonezilla" or similar to clone either: #*entire HDD #*key partitions ==== Preliminaries ==== #Boot the netbook to Windows and then from the Control Panel: #*disable virtual RAM (swapper.exe/dat) #**? is there any such thing under Win 7 #*make a hard-copy note of the total size of the C: drive #*if the netbook has had more than trivial use with Windows, then '''de-fragment''' the entire C: drive #**be aware that this might take''' many''' hours ==== Count Existing Partitions ==== Case - 3 or fewer #Boot the netbook to the USB device containing the utility software #use gparted to shrink the Windows C: drive, to the extent desired #*this will usually be the largest partition, but will not be /dev/sda1 on all netbooks #*invariably NTFS filesystem #*cross-check with the size of the C: drive noted earlier Case - 4 Partitions #try your luck with gparted, as above - ''yes really'' #if after shrinking C: gparted is unable to create extra partition(s) then you will need to delete '''one''' pre-existing partition #*the '''only''' candidate is the "manufacturer's crud" partition, that contains optional utilities, games and other "freeware" === Don't Proceed (Zero Option) === If uncertain of your ability to compete one of the above options, other options include: #don't proceed #seek assistance #purchase separate hardware for a portable Linux system #*netbook having Linux pre-installed #*tablet computer, most of which have Linux/Android pre-installed, although the functionality is somewhat different from a netbook. == Think Outside the Square == === Laptops === A better option with Laptops can be to remove the original HDD/SSD and store it in a safe place. This procedure can readily be done by an end-user in most cases. Then install a replacement storage drive for use with Linux. Alternatively, the above procedures can be implemented === Desktops === Dual-booting Windows and Linux from the same storage device has many limitations including. *Windows continually overwriting LInux bootloader *configuration of bootloader is more complicated *choices for disk partitioning are constrained Better solutions for recent desktop computers are: *in the case of PC having Windows pre-installed, purchase and install a second HDD for exclusive use with Linux '''as well as''' a Linux bootloader **first check that the PC '''can''' boot a second HDD - this is usually selected via key F11/F12 at POST stage *get a generic PC, having no pre-installed software, assembled by a computer shop *purchase a brand-name PC, having no pre-installed software. The best known example is HP Proliant Microservers === Booting from Extra Drives === see [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:59, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] c40985be9a423d4565521c91a171fc86124537ff 0 90 434 2012-08-21T06:06:00Z Pblair 10 Created page with "Microsoft's Web PI is a comprehensive package assembled by Microsoft to enable an easy build of their web platform. The package includes Internet Information Services (IIS), SQL …" wikitext text/x-wiki Microsoft's Web PI is a comprehensive package assembled by Microsoft to enable an easy build of their web platform. The package includes Internet Information Services (IIS), SQL Server Express, .NET Framework, Visual Web Developer Easy, Silverlight and PHP. Version 3 (7/2010) and Version 4 (10/2012) are mature and well tested by the developer comunity, ensuring reliability. There is also an automated Web Application Gallery, allowing for easy installation of 3rd party software such as WordPress, Umbraco, Drupal and Joomla! Web PI is free. Setup is more tedious than XAMPP, but the instructions are clear - you just need more patience. It can be downloaded from http://www.microsoft.com/web/downloads/platform.aspx, where there are links to just about everything you will need to know. There is also an active forum, if you need help. [[Category:Technical Info]] 0c8d8bd8f3faec41f74aab319d16b9a5f34d82a0 436 434 2012-08-21T06:31:22Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Microsoft's Web PI is a comprehensive package assembled by Microsoft to enable an easy build of their web platform. The package includes Internet Information Services (IIS), SQL Server Express, .NET Framework, Visual Web Developer Easy, Silverlight and PHP. Version 3 (7/2010) and Version 4 (10/2012) are mature and well tested by the developer comunity, ensuring reliability. There is also an automated Web Application Gallery, allowing for easy installation of 3rd party software such as WordPress, Umbraco, Drupal and Joomla! [[File:web_pi10.jpg|center|400px|thumb]] Web PI is free. Setup is more tedious than XAMPP, but the instructions are clear - you just need more patience. It can be downloaded from http://www.microsoft.com/web/downloads/platform.aspx, where there are links to just about everything you will need to know. There is also an active forum, if you need help. [[Category:Technical Info]] 8f9e2c028cd421b68015427c70b611ee117eae18 6 91 435 2012-08-21T06:29:53Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 92 442 2012-08-24T01:28:35Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "== For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating …" wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">'''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer ==== BIOS ==== *usually by pressing F11 at POST stage - soometimes other keys such as F12, F8 *then select relevant "drive" ==== UEFI ==== *usually requires entering "Setup" mode for firmware *will require password, if one set in CMOS #navigate to "Boot" tab #select "Boot Override" #select relevant "drive" == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4ce956111b1559d49772d44bdd5d3ae08abeec25 449 442 2012-08-24T03:52:36Z Rpeters 14 replaced text in Selecting Boot device with internal link to common instructions wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">'''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 19080a7b31a1283c6ec23c0f2e7109f79dae2fb0 0 93 445 2012-08-24T03:25:53Z Rpeters 14 creadted separate item, which can be referenced from several others on this wiki wikitext text/x-wiki === Scope === The following are now treated as removable media, in additon to the traditional Floppy & CD?DVD drives *USB "flash/pen drives" *USB card readers *inbuilt SD readers *external drives **HDD **CD/DVD/Blueray === Selecting Boot Device === This task has become more complicated in recent years as a result of: *trend towards removable media devices being set to DISABLED by default, as a counter to malware *increasing variety of removable media devices *migration to UEFI firmware, which has different procedures The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer ==== BIOS ==== *usually by pressing F11 at POST stage - sometimes other keys such as F12, F8 #then select relevant device type #then select relevant "drive" #followed by relevant OS, if more than one on the drive *computers earlier than about 2004 may have limited ability to boot external devices ==== UEFI ==== *usually requires entering "Setup" mode for firmware **usually by pressing DEL at POST stage *doing so will require password, if one set in CMOS #navigate to "Boot" tab #select "Boot Override" #select relevant "drive" #followed by relevant OS, if more than one on the drive --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 41379ad37178e41afbbc34e36adda258e889dfd4 446 445 2012-08-24T03:34:01Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki === Scope === The following are now treated as removable media, in additon to the traditional Floppy & CD?DVD drives *USB "flash/pen drives" *USB card readers *inbuilt SD readers *external drives **HDD **CD/DVD/Blueray === Selecting Boot Device === #This task has become more complicated in recent years as a result of: #*trend towards removable media devices being set to DISABLED by default, as a counter to malware #*increasing variety of removable media devices #*migration to UEFI firmware, which has different procedures #The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer #USB card readers and flash/pen drives might appear to firmware as either #*USB FDD or #*USB HDD #depending on how the software installed to them was complied #*no harm in trying one or the other, until boot is achieved ==== BIOS ==== *usually by pressing F11 at POST stage - sometimes other keys such as F12, F8 #then select relevant device type #then select relevant "drive" #followed by relevant OS, if more than one on the drive *computers earlier than about 2004 may have limited ability to boot external devices ==== UEFI ==== *usually requires entering "Setup" mode for firmware **usually by pressing DEL at POST stage *doing so will require password, if one set in CMOS #navigate to "Boot" tab #select "Boot Override" #select relevant "drive" #followed by relevant OS, if more than one on the drive --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e6c2ba6c0ee76005d9c3dac1b9eb0dee4152c069 448 446 2012-08-24T03:50:28Z Rpeters 14 listed possible removable device types wikitext text/x-wiki === Scope === The following are now treated as removable media, in additon to the traditional Floppy & CD?DVD drives *USB "flash/pen drives" *USB card readers *inbuilt SD readers *external drives **HDD **CD/DVD/Blueray === Selecting Boot Device === #This task has become more complicated in recent years as a result of: #*trend towards removable media devices being set to DISABLED by default, as a counter to malware #*increasing variety of removable media devices #*migration to UEFI firmware, which has different procedures #possible device types i might be recognised as #*"CDROM" for ''internal'' optical drive #*"USB CDROM" for ''external'' optical drive #*"USB CDROM" for USB drive written from standard dotISO #*"USB HDD" for USB drive written from hybrid dotISO #*"SD" for ''internal'' SD drive #*USB card readers and flash/pen drives might appear to firmware as either #**USB FDD or #**USB HDD #**depending on how the software installed to them was complied #**no harm in trying one or the other, until boot is achieved #The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer ==== BIOS ==== *usually by pressing F11 at POST stage - sometimes other keys such as F12, F8 #then select relevant device type #then select relevant "drive" #followed by relevant OS, if more than one on the drive *computers earlier than about 2004 may have limited ability to boot external devices ==== UEFI ==== *usually requires entering "Setup" mode for firmware **usually by pressing DEL at POST stage *doing so will require password, if one set in CMOS #navigate to "Boot" tab #select "Boot Override" #select relevant "drive" #followed by relevant OS, if more than one on the drive --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e3a6a628a8c02c2b5ca05cdf7995fe2b2f57aa67 0 94 457 2012-08-24T08:10:42Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "=== For General Users === * === Getting Technical === === rnapshot === #The philosophy behind rsnapshot is tha backups happen regularly and reliably '''only''' if fully aut…" wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === * === Getting Technical === === rnapshot === #The philosophy behind rsnapshot is tha backups happen regularly and reliably '''only''' if fully automated #*rsnapshot handles the "how, what & where" #*cron handles the "when" #best installed from your Operating System's media/repositories - alternatively #*http://www.rsnapshot.org/downloads.html #'''essential''' - read the HOWTO ==== rnapshot for Windows ==== *probably not feasible because Windows filesystems do not provide the required functions *cwRsync goes part way http://www.rsync.net/resources/howto/windows_rsync.html == Strictly for Geeks == * --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]18:10, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 4b31abc881c86d7378ea7e701ccf49276213da38 465 457 2012-08-26T04:32:46Z Rpeters 14 /* rnapshot */ added link for MacOSX wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === * === Getting Technical === === rnapshot === rsnapshot is tested on many UNIX-like OS #The philosophy behind rsnapshot is tha backups happen regularly and reliably '''only''' if fully automated #*rsnapshot handles the "how, what & where" #*cron handles the "when" #but wait, there's more #*speed & space efficiency approach that of incremental backups #*restores files as easily as from stand-alone backup #best installed from your Operating System's media/repositories - alternatively #*http://www.rsnapshot.org/downloads.html #'''essential''' - read their HOWTO ==== rsnapshot for MacOSX ==== *might be available for later versions - see: http://www.rousette.org.uk/blog/archives/backups-rsync-and-rsnapshot/ ==== rnapshot for Windows ==== *probably not feasible because Windows filesystems do not provide the required functions *cwRsync goes part way http://www.rsync.net/resources/howto/windows_rsync.html -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Strictly for Geeks == * --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]18:10, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b8a60ab58f2db069282b24602b8961c21bd1a75c 0 49 458 341 2012-08-24T22:17:18Z Rpeters 14 /* Resources */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' == Equipment == ''content invited'' == Resources == ''content invited'' === Media Room === === Training Room === '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #*cabled for HDMI or VGA input #*optimum resolution 1280 x 800 #older, contingency, projector held #*1024 x 768 resolution #*VGA only input '''Computers''' #12 identical units, plus 13th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 591d7caf0f7de451e3bbe1b2b4aca8a5ebf04344 461 458 2012-08-26T01:12:42Z Rpeters 14 /* Training Room */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' == Equipment == ''content invited'' == Resources == ''content invited'' === Media Room === === Training Room === see Equipment section, above, for more technical detail of the equipment resources '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #accepts input from Computers/Laptops, VCR, PVR, USB sticks #older, contingency, projector held '''Computers''' #identical units #*1 for trainer/presenter #*11 for students, plus 12th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] f1c7dbd5c2c3f1438ef856c9479fe96e3e610fdd 462 461 2012-08-26T01:24:29Z Rpeters 14 /* Equipment */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' == Equipment == ''content invited'' === Training Room === '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #*cabled for HDMI or VGA input #*optimum resolution 1280 x 800 #older, contingency, projector held #*1024 x 768 resolution #*VGA only input '''Computers''' #12 identical units, plus 13th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible **Lexmark Optra T640 high speed printer '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request **Canon D660U,suitable only for basic traininig '''White Board''' *double-sided unit at front of room plus *wall-mounted unit ar rear of room --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] == Resources == ''content invited'' === Media Room === === Training Room === see Equipment section, above, for more technical detail of the equipment resources '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #accepts input from Computers/Laptops, VCR, PVR, USB sticks #older, contingency, projector held '''Computers''' #identical units #*1 for trainer/presenter #*11 for students, plus 12th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 3189252e03df82cf0164e512d54158675a28c54e 463 462 2012-08-26T01:27:42Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' == Equipment == ''content invited'' === Training Room === '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #*cabled for HDMI or VGA input #*optimum resolution 1280 x 800 #older, contingency, projector held #*1024 x 768 resolution #*VGA only input '''Computers''' #12 identical units, plus 13th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible **Lexmark Optra T640 high speed printer '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request **Canon D660U,suitable only for basic traininig --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] == Resources == ''content invited'' === Media Room === === Training Room === see Equipment section, above, for more technical detail of the equipment resources '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #accepts input from Computers/Laptops, VCR, PVR, USB sticks #older, contingency, projector held '''Computers''' #identical units #*1 for trainer/presenter #*11 for students, plus 12th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request '''Server''' *LAN access to Windows 2003 server **storage and printing services only accessible from Training Room '''White Board''' *non-electronic units *double-sided unit at front of room plus *wall-mounted unit ar rear of room --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 9910bcd207912c2f33edb103dc95283a1b95ab08 2 95 459 2012-08-25T23:12:11Z Rpeters 14 Created page with " == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly f…" wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 16565da0b3a17ec453e1d3be06cf5b9618bde14d 0 5 464 362 2012-08-26T01:53:01Z Rpeters 14 added outline of LAN wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc ===Activity Schedules=== ====PCUG Calendar==== *Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (''see link in navigation bar'') ===Activity Descriptions=== *are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' == Activities with Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment ==== LAN (including WiFi) ==== #wired LAN formed via '''four''' Gigabit Ethernet switches #*older, 10/100 Ethernet switches may be deployed, as contingency, in place of one or more of the Gb switches #WiFi provided by 802.11/g WAP #*SOHO grade unit supporting only a '''few''' concurrent users #*contingency unit '''not''' held ==== Gateway ==== #"cold" spare Gateway PC & DSL Modem held in store room #*simplest procedure, if software or hardware issue suspected, is to deploy the relevant spare #detailed procedures are documented and held by Office Manager === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance � === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 553ade216ae4aa386458ae6be95e02caf9c6af18 0 94 466 465 2012-08-26T04:37:17Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === * === Getting Technical === ==== rnapshot ==== ===== rsnapshot for Linux etc ===== rsnapshot is tested on many UNIX-like OS #The philosophy behind rsnapshot is tha backups happen regularly and reliably '''only''' if fully automated #*rsnapshot handles the "how, what & where" #*cron handles the "when" #but wait, there's more #*speed & space efficiency approach that of incremental backups #*restores files as easily as from stand-alone backup #best installed from your Operating System's media/repositories - alternatively #*http://www.rsnapshot.org/downloads.html #'''essential''' - read their HOWTO ===== rsnapshot for MacOSX ===== *might be available for later versions - see: http://www.rousette.org.uk/blog/archives/backups-rsync-and-rsnapshot/ ===== rnapshot for Windows ===== *probably not feasible **because Windows filesystems do not provide the required functions *cwRsync goes part way http://www.rsync.net/resources/howto/windows_rsync.html -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] === Strictly for Geeks === * --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]14:37, 26 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 9e631bff2ee02df891b1ef96d28ecd10d21d7f56 2 95 467 459 2012-08-26T05:10:44Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == * == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 735614ac3dccfeb9fce63026e826f9134d55f317 0 16 468 447 2012-08-30T05:39:40Z Rpeters 14 added link to Win32DiskImager wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". Popular burner software Nero and Deepburner have this option. If in doubt, get the product</span> ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">and install that. It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD. ---- <span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''In Windows 7, locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options - click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD. To be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box'''.</span> |} dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media (most burner software will cope with this). Doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Windows users only #*other users see #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Writing ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media, as above #*but require this alternative procedure to achive their main advamtage of typically booting much faster #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 68c4c0382a69c6ab7e2d591fc077d7bce64f54c0 0 7 469 456 2012-08-30T05:42:31Z Rpeters 14 /* Windows */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 2ed2abdcdc2fe35cc230771dc6191d1b64547853 471 469 2012-08-30T06:04:24Z Rpeters 14 /* Peripherals */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 3c19fee6e2d9a77bd787d189cd21bc314becc974 472 471 2012-08-30T06:15:14Z Rpeters 14 /* Windows */ added file sharing with other OS wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 7eeb109a924102ae53c06ee2a7fb1981e8feb252 474 472 2012-08-30T10:31:14Z Pblair 10 /* Computer Systems */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] cccf025894e9aaa868ba91df3c3daf21c1f286e0 477 474 2012-08-30T22:03:31Z Rpeters 14 /* Printers */removed article re external displays/projectors wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a1522efd051c31ecfc602b0cff102e21f2f01a29 478 477 2012-08-30T22:04:18Z Rpeters 14 /* Monitors & Projectors */ relocated artice re external displays/projectors wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 198089e48721535c6c8fe2c0d841a584ff893ae5 480 478 2012-08-30T22:38:52Z Rpeters 14 /* Printers */added parallel port printers wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 6b61070e4777e9d1e14b77a8f75de7ff9d24e84c 489 480 2012-08-31T01:32:40Z Sfrtest 5 Add link to new Two Page Display page under Windows wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e091c4e0393c43a798eba27060a84b6909d9f6ef 499 489 2012-08-31T02:08:25Z Sfrtest 5 Add link to new Scanning Slides using CanoScan page under Scanners wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] c65853249e4297f443f40802b4ae2636f5a608fa 500 499 2012-08-31T05:17:20Z Rpeters 14 /* Software */ added Office & Vector Drawing sections wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== *OpenOffice * ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e67abcf8a00dcf7f15002ae63c81a2a3c6859648 501 500 2012-08-31T05:34:03Z Rpeters 14 /* Office */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== *OpenOffice Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export .DOCX documents as well. [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:34, 31 August 2012 (EST) - * -[[Category:Technical Info]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 2acd26203d014e2409ea67543ad3f232d863dd12 502 501 2012-08-31T05:36:00Z Rpeters 14 /* Office */ added overview of OpenOffice wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== *OpenOffice Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export .DOCX documents as well. [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:34, 31 August 2012 (EST) - * [[Category:Technical Info]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] aaaecc060fdcb8c1dfe481e2d3d441e23a77a7ff 503 502 2012-08-31T05:39:15Z Rpeters 14 /* Software */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] b0d627f17cbf14c8665ae7d366fd1f393b461615 504 503 2012-08-31T05:40:30Z Rpeters 14 /* Office */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== [[Office]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] cec41388f89d5aced5f35129702871142157a057 505 504 2012-08-31T05:41:44Z Rpeters 14 /* Software */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] dd71bc546b0c54cf219793b52cfe76568159bffc 508 505 2012-08-31T08:48:09Z Lpb 2 Add major hardware section in col 4 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7_Hardware_Recommendations]] * [[Two Page Display]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] ==== Web hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 719d7a3ddbab8655c96fecc958e303c77999742c 509 508 2012-08-31T08:51:09Z Lpb 2 Sort sub-headings into alphabetic order wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== * |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 1ea1dd1e22fa5e4dc5de667cb527868edacfd4fb 0 96 470 2012-08-30T05:59:16Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "== Internet & Office Use == Our Training PC, having the following resources, are quite responsive when running Win7 Pro and using browser, email or office software *3 Gig, singl…" wikitext text/x-wiki == Internet & Office Use == Our Training PC, having the following resources, are quite responsive when running Win7 Pro and using browser, email or office software *3 Gig, single-core CPU *2 GB dual-channel DDR RAM *160 GB SATA hard disk drive *64 MB graphics "card" Any new desktop or laptop PC is likely to have better resources than the above Netbooks, sold with Win7 Starter, typically have the following resources *1.6 Gig, single-core CPU *1 GB dual-channel DDR RAM *160 GB SATA hard disk drive == Graphics & Gaming == TBA [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:59, 30 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 8bb027b6f3b1388a47862b759e98d22586bce097 0 97 473 2012-08-30T06:29:55Z Rpeters 14 added simple guidelines wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Infrequently === Options include: #use a USB memory device to "sneaker net" #attach files to an email to yourself and access from the other system == Getting Technical == === Routinely === Options include: #many commodity NAS boxes allow files to be retrieved by all OS #*check specifications before purchasing a new device #install the software package "Samba" on the other OS #*might require some configuration, beyond the default settings == Strictly for Geeks == [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]][[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 16:29, 30 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 77136f50ea60d15d4058f24f4ddec7fe740984ef 0 98 475 2012-08-30T10:31:40Z Pblair 10 Created page with "To help make the transition: * [http://sourceforge.net/projects/classicshell/?source=directory Add classic Start menu] * [http://tinyurl.com/9dk7qka Keyboard & Navigation shortc…" wikitext text/x-wiki To help make the transition: * [http://sourceforge.net/projects/classicshell/?source=directory Add classic Start menu] * [http://tinyurl.com/9dk7qka Keyboard & Navigation shortcuts] * [http://tinyurl.com/8k9ua84 How to Add the Old Control Panel to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/7v8yjuz How to Boot to the Desktop & Skip Metro in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9c7cfu4 Go Directly to Desktop Mode in Windows 8 on Login (Without Installing Extra Software)] * [http://tinyurl.com/98zoxvv How to Name Groups of Apps on the Windows 8 Metro Start Screen] * [http://tinyurl.com/9apth8n How to Pin Apps or Folders to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9f8xycc Organize Tiles into Groups on the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9nushlp Pin Your Favorite Websites to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/8pqlq5a How to Make Windows 8 Metro Web Tiles Open in the Desktop Browser] * [http://tinyurl.com/8t6d62p Beginner: How to Disable a Live Tile in Windows 8] Ignore the references to the Metro screen - think instead of the UI screen. Credits: How-to Geeks/SourceForge/Microsoft [[Category:Technical Info]] bbf0158c8e2e064281420a92e538a0692bd0ccbf 0 35 476 77 2012-08-30T22:02:14Z Rpeters 14 split into automatic & manal sections wikitext text/x-wiki == Automatic Cleaning == some contemporary ink-jet printers do a periodic automatic clean of the heads, if not used frequently *this may happen when the printer is not powered up *it is better to leave standby power permantly ON for this reason [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:02, 31 August 2012 (EST) == Manual Cleaning == But for those not wishing to replace their printer, do a Google for "Cleaning inkjet printers". I found many things there which would have helped me 3 years ago such as the need to soak heads in a solvent such as isopropyl alcohol (available from [http://www.dse.com.au/cgi-bin/dse.storefront Dick Smith] at $7.99 for a 250 ml bottle for of ISO PRO Cleaner Pump Spray), for possibly about 4 days www.weeno.com. A more powerful solvent "Print Head Clog Buster" from inkmizer is described by [http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/article_pages/inkjet_cleaning.html], again requiring soaking for possibly several days. Also less drastic alternatives are suggested such as Windex glass cleaner and a 50% ammonia solution. For those interested in more detail I am particularly impressed by [http://www.channelphoto-media.co.uk/html/pigment-or-dye.html] Jeff - 18/Jul/12 -- [[Category:Technical Info]] 3a5a40ade3dbfe405792519c75d220fb1ac3cb1c 479 476 2012-08-30T22:30:37Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Automatic Cleaning == some contemporary ink-jet printers do a periodic automatic clean of the heads, if not used frequently *this may happen when the printer is not powered up *it is better to leave standby power permantly ON for this reason [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:02, 31 August 2012 (EST) == Manual Cleaning == But for those not wishing to replace their printer, do a Google for "Cleaning inkjet printers". I found many things there which would have helped me 3 years ago such as the need to soak heads in a solvent such as isopropyl alcohol (available from [http://www.dse.com.au/cgi-bin/dse.storefront Dick Smith] at $7.99 for a 250 ml bottle for of ISO PRO Cleaner Pump Spray), for possibly about 4 days www.weeno.com. A more powerful solvent "Print Head Clog Buster" from inkmizer is described by [http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/article_pages/inkjet_cleaning.html], again requiring soaking for possibly several days. Also less drastic alternatives are suggested such as Windex glass cleaner and a 50% ammonia solution. For those interested in more detail I am particularly impressed by [http://www.channelphoto-media.co.uk/html/pigment-or-dye.html] Jeff - 18/Jul/12 The following site has suggestions for printheads from many brands and models http://www.ehow.com/printheads/ I followed the recommendations in this article and got a clogged, pigment head working fine *note that '''hot''' water is used *ideally the head needs partial dis-assembly http://www.ehow.com/how_5195058_clean-clogged-canon-printhead.html [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:30, 31 August 2012 (EST) -- [[Category:Technical Info]] 5dd6cf222d5074e40cc357829160de8f524788b5 0 99 481 2012-08-30T23:16:32Z Rpeters 14 added article wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Such printers are now old and only woth pursuing for special features, such as: *capability for larger than A4 paper *stock of consumables available == Connection == Few contemporary computers have a parallel port. Possible options #some may have a neader on the mainboard, to which a parallel port sccket, having "flying" cable, from '90s vintage computer may be plugged #USB-LPT adapter #printer server Printer cables conforming to iEEE 1284 use twisted-pairs, for higher data transfer rates *these will make a difference only for ECP or EPP capable printers == Settings == Settings in the computer's BIOS or device menu '''and''' the printer should be set to the highest capability that '''both''' can handle. The following capablilities are listed in '''increasing''' order: *Stnadard Parallel Port (SPP) - for pre-1994 printers *bi-directional - typically in mid-90s printers *EPP *ECP USB-LPT devices may not be configurable and tend to support higher modes only *these may not work at all with SPP or bi-directional printers == Linux == Linux distributions from about 2011 do not '''activate''' modules required for parallel port printers, by default. #In 3.x kernels the modules required are named #*ppdevv ('parport' in 2.6.x kernels) #*lp : --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]09:16, 31 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] f078f512670a28135c7daf7518c8bbc315c91934 2 100 482 2012-08-31T00:54:06Z Sfrtest 5 Create initial page wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''[[User:Sfr|Stephen's]]''' dummy test user that ''[[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] '' has swiped to use for this tutorial. One of my favorite sites is [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News] == Some of my Favorite Things == Heres an unnumbered list: * computer security * dancing * SF books & shows And for numbered lists: # thing 1 # thing 2 # nada === Nada nada nada === ec77320a9167c77e24f6e68a566be3f5dff36401 483 482 2012-08-31T01:10:45Z Sfrtest 5 Demo image insertion wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''[[User:Sfr|Stephen's]]''' dummy test user that ''[[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] '' has swiped to use for this tutorial. One of my favorite sites is [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News] [[File:Computer Security]] == Some of my Favorite Things == Heres an unnumbered list: * computer security * dancing * SF books & shows And for numbered lists: # thing 1 # thing 2 # nada === Nada nada nada === b0cdbf91e2ed9437d26ed5577742b54fec383ddd 484 483 2012-08-31T01:12:44Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''[[User:Sfr|Stephen's]]''' dummy test user that ''[[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] '' has swiped to use for this tutorial. One of my favorite sites is [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News] [[File:ComputerSecurity.gif]] == Some of my Favorite Things == Heres an unnumbered list: * computer security * dancing * SF books & shows And for numbered lists: # thing 1 # thing 2 # nada === Nada nada nada === 6a3d86467c4c56d0654ffc7c5bc8a726263f37de 486 484 2012-08-31T01:19:35Z Sfrtest 5 demo image options wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''[[User:Sfr|Stephen's]]''' dummy test user that ''[[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] '' has swiped to use for this tutorial. One of my favorite sites is [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News] [[File:ComputerSecurity.gif|thumb|keeping things secure]] == Some of my Favorite Things == Heres an unnumbered list: * computer security * dancing * SF books & shows And for numbered lists: # thing 1 # thing 2 # nada === Nada nada nada === bc65600e808debde140f93914c27125787dfc572 487 486 2012-08-31T01:28:54Z Sfrtest 5 Link to new Two Page Display page wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''[[User:Sfr|Stephen's]]''' dummy test user that ''[[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] '' has swiped to use for this tutorial. One of my favorite sites is [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News] [[File:ComputerSecurity.gif|thumb|keeping things secure]] == Some of my Favorite Things == Heres an unnumbered list: * computer security * dancing * SF books & shows And for numbered lists: # thing 1 # thing 2 # nada == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Two Page Display]] 7486eef718507febe0d6b7962db950bb12c17590 490 487 2012-08-31T01:42:29Z Sfrtest 5 Add link to new Scanning Slides using CanoScan page wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''[[User:Sfr|Stephen's]]''' dummy test user that ''[[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] '' has swiped to use for this tutorial. One of my favorite sites is [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News] [[File:ComputerSecurity.gif|thumb|keeping things secure]] == Some of my Favorite Things == Heres an unnumbered list: * computer security * dancing * SF books & shows And for numbered lists: # thing 1 # thing 2 # nada == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] 1c7a1834823dbf86b24e7efbb997b10e9f26628e 6 101 485 2012-08-31T01:13:09Z Sfrtest 5 Computer Security logo wikitext text/x-wiki Computer Security logo 22719c1028f541579dbcb555f24a02d2344af824 0 102 488 2012-08-31T01:30:43Z Sfrtest 5 Creatre page using content supplied by Jeff Colwell wikitext text/x-wiki === How to Display two adjacent pages on a monitor screen (Win 7) === I often work on 2 screens of data or applications displayed side by side on my monitor. For example when I want to follow a set of instructions to modify a faulty application using Windows 7 - better with a wide monitor screen but not essential. In the applications you want to appear on one half of the screen Press the '''Windows (Start) key + Left key or + Right key''' depending on whether you want the window on the left or right of the screen. Then you can work with two windows side by side on the computer. Alternatively if you have two applications on your monitor screen drag one to the left hand side and the other to the right hand side your screen. Each will then appear on each half side of the screen. Jeff f12d181aec4d0aacd0e2b6f33bdb454bb417d9c8 0 103 491 2012-08-31T01:51:48Z Sfrtest 5 Create page with initial content from Jeff Colwell wikitext text/x-wiki == Scanning 35mm transparencies with CanoScan 9950F == The CanoScan 9950F provides a variety of settings for scanning batches of up to twelve 35mm transparencies and storing the scanned images as BMP, JPG or TIF format files in dated subfolders. First create a folder to receive these subfolders as for example in "C:\My Pictures\35mm slides" in your ome computer or "35mm slides" on a USB memory stick for images to be obtained by scanning with the PCUG scanner. Image files may then be selected from these folders for processing/enhancing as with Paint Shop Pro, PhotoShop, PhotoStudio or similar. With appropriate settings, routine scanning of transparencies requires only the clicking of the Scan-2 button of CanoScan Toolbox and then clicking Scan, Preview and Scan in the successive displayed windows. (By default the Scan-1 button is for scanning opaque documents or prints on the CanonScan platen.) [[File:slide-scan-1.jpg]] === Setup === # Remove the white platen from under the lid of the scanner (click is at its top) to allow scanning of transparencies or film. (The platen is used when scanning opaque items.) # Switch CanoScan on with button '''''underneath''''' the button bar '''''on''''' the scanner. (Note: The buttons on the scanner button bar all function but are '''''not''''' used for the present scanning procedure.) # Place transparency/film holder on scanner glass. Avoid touching the glass to avoid marking by finger prints. # Turn on PC. # Login after Ctrl+Alt+Delete with: member, Operat1ng, MEDIA2 (this Media Room computer). See instructions attached below for the USB switch in the Medial Room. # Display CanoScan Toolbox 4.9 by clicking the icon , third from the Start button on taskbar at bottom of the monitor screen. === Scanning === See tags on images below. 1 Click Scan-2 for scanning of 35mm slides. [[File:slide-scan-2.jpg]] 2 Tick to Display the Scanner Driver. This will grey out the 4 Scanner Settings and provide instead a choice of settings on the Advanced Mode page as for example to select an area for scanning and as described below. 3 Nominate a name for the image files and the format JPEG. 4 Location for the scanned images folder such as "C:\My Pictures\35mm slides" in your home computer or "35mm slides" on a USB memory stick. 5 Optional use of subfolder with current date. 6 External program for generating the picture files for scanned images (eg.IrfanView on the PCUG computer). 7 Save time by not ticking for confirmation. 8 Click Scan to go to next page and select '''''Advanced Mode'''''. Suggested choice of options is: [[File:slide-scan-3.jpg]] 9 1200dpi is adequate resolution for printing images to A4 size even with image cropping to about half size. 2400 or 4800 could be chosen for poster size prints producing image files 4x and 16x larger but large files may result in storage problems or make some editing operations painfully slow. 300dpi is adequate for scanned documents. 10 Various image settings can be chosen to enhance scanned images but each of these will slow up the scanning process. Corresponding enhancing processes are provided by PhotoShop or Paint Shop Pro and with these programs the processes may be applied more conveniently to all files in a folder (such as 35mm slides folder for 4) by a batch process in conjunction with other processes as for example to convert the file type recommended by these programs for enhancing images. 11 For routine scanning Preferences provides Automatically Execute Preview to replace step 12. [[File:slide-scan-4.jpg]] 12 Click the first button on the toolbar to toggle for thumbnails of the transparencies in the scanner. 13 Click the button on the top toolbar to tick/select all files for scanning. 14 Click Scan to start the scanning putting and store the scanned images in the dated folder as specified in step 3. [[File:slide-scan-5.jpg]] [[File:slide-scan-6.jpg]] 91104498174570c2f0cdc25bbc0cc2348eb05ccc 498 491 2012-08-31T02:04:09Z Sfrtest 5 Add options to images wikitext text/x-wiki == Scanning 35mm transparencies with CanoScan 9950F == The CanoScan 9950F provides a variety of settings for scanning batches of up to twelve 35mm transparencies and storing the scanned images as BMP, JPG or TIF format files in dated subfolders. First create a folder to receive these subfolders as for example in "C:\My Pictures\35mm slides" in your ome computer or "35mm slides" on a USB memory stick for images to be obtained by scanning with the PCUG scanner. Image files may then be selected from these folders for processing/enhancing as with Paint Shop Pro, PhotoShop, PhotoStudio or similar. With appropriate settings, routine scanning of transparencies requires only the clicking of the Scan-2 button of CanoScan Toolbox and then clicking Scan, Preview and Scan in the successive displayed windows. (By default the Scan-1 button is for scanning opaque documents or prints on the CanonScan platen.) [[File:slide-scan-1.jpg|center|CanoScan Scanner]] === Setup === # Remove the white platen from under the lid of the scanner (click is at its top) to allow scanning of transparencies or film. (The platen is used when scanning opaque items.) # Switch CanoScan on with button '''''underneath''''' the button bar '''''on''''' the scanner. (Note: The buttons on the scanner button bar all function but are '''''not''''' used for the present scanning procedure.) # Place transparency/film holder on scanner glass. Avoid touching the glass to avoid marking by finger prints. # Turn on PC. # Login after Ctrl+Alt+Delete with: member, Operat1ng, MEDIA2 (this Media Room computer). See instructions attached below for the USB switch in the Medial Room. # Display CanoScan Toolbox 4.9 by clicking the icon , third from the Start button on taskbar at bottom of the monitor screen. === Scanning === See tags on images below. 1 Click Scan-2 for scanning of 35mm slides. [[File:slide-scan-2.jpg|center|CanoScan Toolbox]] 2 Tick to Display the Scanner Driver. This will grey out the 4 Scanner Settings and provide instead a choice of settings on the Advanced Mode page as for example to select an area for scanning and as described below. 3 Nominate a name for the image files and the format JPEG. 4 Location for the scanned images folder such as "C:\My Pictures\35mm slides" in your home computer or "35mm slides" on a USB memory stick. 5 Optional use of subfolder with current date. 6 External program for generating the picture files for scanned images (eg.IrfanView on the PCUG computer). 7 Save time by not ticking for confirmation. 8 Click Scan to go to next page and select '''''Advanced Mode'''''. Suggested choice of options is: [[File:slide-scan-3.jpg|center|Scanning Options]] 9 1200dpi is adequate resolution for printing images to A4 size even with image cropping to about half size. 2400 or 4800 could be chosen for poster size prints producing image files 4x and 16x larger but large files may result in storage problems or make some editing operations painfully slow. 300dpi is adequate for scanned documents. 10 Various image settings can be chosen to enhance scanned images but each of these will slow up the scanning process. Corresponding enhancing processes are provided by PhotoShop or Paint Shop Pro and with these programs the processes may be applied more conveniently to all files in a folder (such as 35mm slides folder for 4) by a batch process in conjunction with other processes as for example to convert the file type recommended by these programs for enhancing images. 11 For routine scanning Preferences provides Automatically Execute Preview to replace step 12. [[File:slide-scan-4.jpg|center|Advanced Mode]] 12 Click the first button on the toolbar to toggle for thumbnails of the transparencies in the scanner. 13 Click the button on the top toolbar to tick/select all files for scanning. 14 Click Scan to start the scanning putting and store the scanned images in the dated folder as specified in step 3. [[File:slide-scan-5.jpg|center|ScanGear]] [[File:slide-scan-6.jpg|center|USB Switch]] 11977e81d9bc9e9e938f4d8334fb59fc44bf6203 507 498 2012-08-31T07:45:38Z Lpb 2 Highlight tag numbers wikitext text/x-wiki == Scanning 35mm transparencies with CanoScan 9950F == The CanoScan 9950F provides a variety of settings for scanning batches of up to twelve 35mm transparencies and storing the scanned images as BMP, JPG or TIF format files in dated subfolders. First create a folder to receive these subfolders as for example in "<code>C:\My Pictures\35mm slides</code>" in your home computer or "<code>35mm slides</code>" on a USB memory stick for images to be obtained by scanning with the PCUG scanner. Image files may then be selected from these folders for processing/enhancing as with Paint Shop Pro, PhotoShop, PhotoStudio or similar. With appropriate settings, routine scanning of transparencies requires only the clicking of the Scan-2 button of CanoScan Toolbox and then clicking Scan, Preview and Scan in the successive displayed windows. (By default the Scan-1 button is for scanning opaque documents or prints on the CanonScan platen.) [[File:slide-scan-1.jpg|center|CanoScan Scanner]] === Setup === # Remove the white platen from under the lid of the scanner (click is at its top) to allow scanning of transparencies or film. (The platen is used when scanning opaque items.) # Switch CanoScan on with button '''''underneath''''' the button bar '''''on''''' the scanner. (Note: The buttons on the scanner button bar all function but are '''''not''''' used for the present scanning procedure.) # Place transparency/film holder on scanner glass. Avoid touching the glass to avoid marking by finger prints. # Turn on PC. # Login after Ctrl+Alt+Delete with displayed details on MEDIA2 (Media Room computer). See instructions attached below for the USB switch in the Medial Room. # Display CanoScan Toolbox 4.9 by clicking the icon , third from the Start button on taskbar at bottom of the monitor screen. === Scanning === See tags on images below. '''[1]''' Click Scan-2 for scanning of 35mm slides. [[File:slide-scan-2.jpg|center|CanoScan Toolbox]] '''[2]''' Tick to Display the Scanner Driver. This will grey out the 4 Scanner Settings and provide instead a choice of settings on the Advanced Mode page as for example to select an area for scanning and as described below. '''[3]''' Nominate a name for the image files and the format JPEG. '''[4]''' Location for the scanned images folder such as "<code>C:\My Pictures\35mm slides</code>" in your home computer or "35mm slides" on a USB memory stick. '''[5]''' Optional use of subfolder with current date. '''[6]''' External program for generating the picture files for scanned images (eg.IrfanView on the PCUG computer). '''[7]''' Save time by not ticking for confirmation. '''[8]''' Click Scan to go to next page and select '''''Advanced Mode'''''. Suggested choice of options is: [[File:slide-scan-3.jpg|center|Scanning Options]] '''[9]''' 1200dpi is adequate resolution for printing images to A4 size even with image cropping to about half size. 2400 or 4800 could be chosen for poster size prints producing image files 4x and 16x larger but large files may result in storage problems or make some editing operations painfully slow. 300dpi is adequate for scanned documents. '''[10]''' Various image settings can be chosen to enhance scanned images but each of these will slow up the scanning process. Corresponding enhancing processes are provided by PhotoShop or Paint Shop Pro and with these programs the processes may be applied more conveniently to all files in a folder (such as 35mm slides folder for 4) by a batch process in conjunction with other processes as for example to convert the file type recommended by these programs for enhancing images. '''[11]''' For routine scanning Preferences provides Automatically Execute Preview to replace step 12. [[File:slide-scan-4.jpg|center|Advanced Mode]] '''[12]''' Click the first button on the toolbar to toggle for thumbnails of the transparencies in the scanner. '''[13]''' Click the button on the top toolbar to tick/select all files for scanning. '''[14]''' Click Scan to start the scanning putting and store the scanned images in the dated folder as specified in step 3. [[File:slide-scan-5.jpg|center|ScanGear]] [[File:slide-scan-6.jpg|center|USB Switch]] 949ecaf2025214df6191c5b4cdea8816851e355b 6 104 492 2012-08-31T01:52:25Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 105 493 2012-08-31T01:54:50Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 106 494 2012-08-31T01:56:25Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 107 495 2012-08-31T01:57:49Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 108 496 2012-08-31T01:58:20Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 109 497 2012-08-31T02:01:14Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 110 506 2012-08-31T05:44:21Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOff…" wikitext text/x-wiki Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export dotDOC & dotDOCX documents as well. [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:34, 31 August 2012 (EST) - * f58062172c1b4e418606df67628d68734bb6e92e 2 31 510 257 2012-08-31T10:56:36Z Lpb 2 Add link to Draft Page wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More on Working with Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] * [[Android App Recommendations]] * [[Draft Page]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} 14512c12fad74bf1a6a2d63577cdb96d859f5b82 0 111 511 2012-08-31T11:04:06Z Lpb 2 Create this page to use at suggested redrafts of existing pages, stage changes here till agreed wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * scheduling of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * ''other information about current activities TBA'' == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 1ea7b4586b96a4be6d9a849a9bec0ff562a12638 512 511 2012-08-31T11:05:19Z Lpb 2 Tweak intro wording wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * scheduling of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * ''other information about current activities TBA'' == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 4f900afcd27a5aa45554788b1712f160210eacdc 0 55 513 309 2012-08-31T11:07:30Z Lpb 2 Copy content from main activities page wikitext text/x-wiki == Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment == Volunteer support is needed to assist with maintaining LAN & Centre Computer resources. ==== LAN (including WiFi) ==== #wired LAN formed via '''four''' Gigabit Ethernet switches #*older, 10/100 Ethernet switches may be deployed, as contingency, in place of one or more of the Gb switches #WiFi provided by 802.11/g WAP #*SOHO grade unit supporting only a '''few''' concurrent users #*contingency unit '''not''' held ==== Gateway ==== #"cold" spare Gateway PC & DSL Modem held in store room #*simplest procedure, if software or hardware issue suspected, is to deploy the relevant spare #detailed procedures are documented and held by Office Manager ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] d1043cb525f496a92873c22a105bc1b6b05fee88 0 72 514 322 2012-08-31T11:10:01Z Lpb 2 Extend with some extra notes. wikitext text/x-wiki The ''' [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-privacy-policy/ PCUG Privacy Policy]''' (on the main PCUG Wordpress site), details the group's privacy policy, which members and staffers are expected to follow. It may also be accessed using the [[Info Wiki:Privacy policy]] link at the bottom of any wiki page. 8a9343bdb63954100fe4012a429b29de8bdcf107 0 68 515 321 2012-08-31T11:11:06Z Lpb 2 add intro note wikitext text/x-wiki This page outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Work Health and Safety == *On Wednesday 1 August 2012, the Hon. Bill Shorten MP, announced the release of the Safe Work Australia Volunteer Resource Kit. *The kit was developed with input from a range of peak volunteer organisations including Volunteering ACT. *The kit will assist volunteers to understand what Work Health and Safety laws mean for them and provides a range of useful tools and information on Work Health and Safety laws including: Full details are available at: http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/SWA/Legislation/volunteers/Pages/Resource-kit.aspx [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category: Policies and Procedures]] 74130d02d51caf91f6d38a290498e7a531643591 0 54 516 307 2012-08-31T11:16:57Z Lpb 2 Add note about part III of rules wikitext text/x-wiki == PCUG Main Committee == '''An overview of roles may be viewed in Part III of the group's [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/rules Rules]''' (on main Wordpress site). These define the '''four''' executive (office-bearer) positions, plus up to 10 general committee members, ie: *President *Vice President *Treasurer *Secretary *General Committee == Sub-committees == *Internet Sub-Services Committee - responsible for policy relating to TIP Internet Services *PCUG Centre Sub-Committee - responsible for policy relating to PCUG Centre operations *Website Sub-Committee - responsible for policy relating to design and structure of the group's websites (esp. Worpress and Info Wiki) ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 4e75ece8ac01f8fa122cb07147316707beaeeae8 0 48 517 308 2012-08-31T11:19:01Z Lpb 2 Add more intro detail from activities page wikitext text/x-wiki Is concerned with: * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs An overview of general help procedures are outlined on the main PCUG site's [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] page, in support of "Users Helping Users" <br/> These procedures are supported by members who have skill, and a willingness share that skill. <br/> == Help Email Group == * this email list receives technical help queries from members<br/> * the list is monitored by members with a variety of skills, whose collective knowledge is efficient in achieving resolution of the issue. * interested members may subscribe to the list<br/> == Home Installation == * is the provision of techical support in the home via arrangement after other avenues of support have been exhausted. == Referral to Members who have that skill == *Members are invited to register skills they possess with the PCUG Office.<br/> *Details of contact restrictions, etc are recorded and used per the pre-advised preferences of the member. ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 7410fa62957d0bc1c61350d23cfef70faf85de6f 0 42 518 310 2012-08-31T11:21:57Z Lpb 2 Add more intro info from activities page wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview of Volunteering at the PCUG Centre == Volunteering at the PCUG Centre is about supporting the needs of PCUG members, whether by phone, in person, email, or snail mail. This may be actioned at the centre or remotely via our [[e-help support]]. The aim is to keep our facilities accessible as long as administratively feasible. With the appropriate support and training, it can be a very rewarding experience – the rewards of course being totally individual. In brief, opportunities are available (details in next section) for: *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance == PCUG Centre Roles == *'''Communication Administration support manning the desk''' for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help<br/r>This typically includes<br/> ** Open the office, before 10:00am. ** Perform 'start of day' tasks to prepare for the day. ** Answer phone calls from members (inclunding any 101 messages). ** Record in Log Book queries from members and their resolution. ** Update PCUG database and TIP accounts based on payments (cheque, creditcard and cash) received. Record payments in Daily Summary (excel) file. ** Process 'Direct Credit' payments made into PCUG's StGeorge account. ** Update the statistics form during the day. ** Perform 'end of day' tasks after 2:00pm, to finish off the day. *'''Background Administration support''', such as data entry, filing *'''A Supervisory role of the Centre''' itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *'''Maintenance of member amenities''', including refreshements *'''Centre Cleaning''' == Main reasons people contact the centre == * renewals for TIP and PCUG membership, whether by cash, cheque or eftpos <br/> * training or media room use & bookings<br/> * new membership enquiries with questions about what our club offers. Callers of this nature are usually after a specific thing, ie training, or technical support.<br/> * seeking advice on a technical problems. While we are not a help desk, we are in a position to refer enquiries to the appropriate web information or support member (or answer the odd question if we can).<br/> * open the centre facilities so members may make drop-in use of the computer & net facilities, or pre-arranged use of the media and training room facilities.<br/> * supporting those who prefer to access direct human interaction of admin, information, and support services.<br/> == How is this achieved? == *Taking a responsible and accountable approach to the centre facilities, and finances. *Taking a respectful approach when interacting with our members. *This sounds heavier than it really is. A commonsense and ethical approach, and following a few basic guidelines will get you through. **centre security with locking and alarm procedures, & letting members access to the centre. **cash handling, and transaction recording (using excel) **respect when dealing with members, who may be dealing with a variety of frustrations **general supervisory role of members using the centre **ethical approach to confidential information in the databases. **directing people out of the Centre in an emergency. It is not possible to cover all contingencies for this, except to emphasize that again we draw on commonsense, our experience and coping mechanisms to employ basic standard emergency procedures, endorsed by the emergency community and TAMS. == What information and training support is available to assist with confidently and comfortably achieving the above? == '''Office Wiki'''<br/> *The web-based staffer online information manual is a virtual document with quick links to step-by-step support info and location photos. *This information may be edited by any our current PCUG Centre Volunteer, or feedback may be directed to the Office Manager. '''Information sessions''' * these are ongoing. *They may be one-on-one (by arrangement) or group based (per demand or need or just ’cause it is time we had one) *so please keep a look out for the next session as advertised in the PCUG calendar and newsletter. '''Feedback & Interest''' *While some days may be quiet, other days are full of PCUG & social activity. *So it may be a chance to catch up on a good book, do some web browsing, over-indulge in the bikkies, tea & coffee at the centre, meet members or learn something new. *We welcome interest to our PCUG Centre Volunteer Staffing team. *Please contact [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] us with your expressions of interest, questions or general feedback. Karen Adams PCUG Office Manager == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 2d3947ef440e755e45ec032e926f9c1e51fcc4f5 0 44 519 311 2012-08-31T11:23:08Z Lpb 2 Add more intro info from activities page wikitext text/x-wiki Opportunities are available for: * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] [[Category:SIGs and Meetings]] 32da32d7e3599f9b336646de1b648b9c7db74236 0 5 520 464 2012-08-31T11:24:04Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''. All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> ''Each of these areas are broad in content and are followed through on the page links to each area''.<br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as ....<br/> ===[[Code of Ethics]]=== *based on Privacy Policy, and other related standards ... ===[[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]]=== *outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc ===Activity Schedules=== ====PCUG Calendar==== *Calendar Dates''' of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the PCUG Calendar (''see link in navigation bar'') ===Activity Descriptions=== *are overviewed in the section below '''Opportunities for Participation''' == Activities with Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> === [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] === *Main PCUG Committee *Sub-Committees **Executive **ISSC **Website **PCUG Centre === [[Help & Assistance]] === * support to assist members by phone, email, home visit * technical assistance for home equipment or internet service * referral to the appropriate help by matching members skills to needs === [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] === *Maintenance of the LAN & Centre Computer Equipment ==== LAN (including WiFi) ==== #wired LAN formed via '''four''' Gigabit Ethernet switches #*older, 10/100 Ethernet switches may be deployed, as contingency, in place of one or more of the Gb switches #WiFi provided by 802.11/g WAP #*SOHO grade unit supporting only a '''few''' concurrent users #*contingency unit '''not''' held ==== Gateway ==== #"cold" spare Gateway PC & DSL Modem held in store room #*simplest procedure, if software or hardware issue suspected, is to deploy the relevant spare #detailed procedures are documented and held by Office Manager === [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] === *Communication Administration support manning the desk for managing member enquiries by in person, or by phone; and e-help *Background Administration support, such as data entry, filing *A Supervisory role of the Centre itself so members may use the facilities of the centre *Maintenance of member amenities, including refreshements *Centre Cleaning & Maintenance === [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] === * SIGs Coordinator * Main Monthly Meeting Coordinator === [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] === * provides specialized systems administration support for [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki The Internet Project (TIP)] ISP services === [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] === * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 9da2c9a5d3395df014d581eba5ef8dcc4f3a64c0 525 520 2012-08-31T23:18:59Z Lpb 2 Replace page with leaner alternative, as drafted on Draft Page wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * scheduling of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * ''other information about current activities TBA'' == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] fca4ac249f8069fff9ba2d0bba47e3a85dab6964 539 525 2012-09-05T01:59:39Z Offcmngr 6 Training Course Info wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * scheduling of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Specifics of [[Training Courses]] == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 5e3b5784902fbb228fcc7ac4017f683aa143e58c 541 539 2012-09-05T02:26:54Z Offcmngr 6 /* Current Activities */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * scheduling of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Specifics of [[Training Courses]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] d22883ad1c1e8be8016f4f9ee5e6e37aeb56eb6e 545 541 2012-09-05T03:06:03Z Offcmngr 6 /* Current Activities */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * The [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG CALENDAR] gives an agenda of events about volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) * Specifics of [[Training Courses | TRAINING COURSES]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) * SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS (information to follow) == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 4ec76a0dae9d60f83b4f8fa2dc9a5354e70a1b28 546 545 2012-09-05T03:15:20Z Offcmngr 6 Linking SIGs page wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * The [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG CALENDAR] gives an agenda of events about volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) * Specifics of [[Training Courses | TRAINING COURSES]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) * Specifics of [[Special Interest Groups - SIGS |SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS]] (information to follow) == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] fd93b4868eaff6ff976f0eb157b355745cfc10d6 549 546 2012-09-05T04:11:33Z Offcmngr 6 Affiliated orgs -> Newsletters wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * The [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG CALENDAR] gives an agenda of events about volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) * Specifics of [[Training Courses | TRAINING COURSES]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) * Specifics of [[Special Interest Groups - SIGS |SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS]] (information to follow) * Information of AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS is grouped with [[Newsletters | NEWSLETTERS]] == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] ee590e82d749b3dbc2e398db3d192f51c94b0fa1 0 49 521 463 2012-08-31T11:24:43Z Lpb 2 Add more intro info from activities page wikitext text/x-wiki Opportunities are available for: * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant * Equipment == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' == Equipment == ''content invited'' === Training Room === '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #*cabled for HDMI or VGA input #*optimum resolution 1280 x 800 #older, contingency, projector held #*1024 x 768 resolution #*VGA only input '''Computers''' #12 identical units, plus 13th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible **Lexmark Optra T640 high speed printer '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request **Canon D660U,suitable only for basic traininig --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] == Resources == ''content invited'' === Media Room === === Training Room === see Equipment section, above, for more technical detail of the equipment resources '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #accepts input from Computers/Laptops, VCR, PVR, USB sticks #older, contingency, projector held '''Computers''' #identical units #*1 for trainer/presenter #*11 for students, plus 12th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request '''Server''' *LAN access to Windows 2003 server **storage and printing services only accessible from Training Room '''White Board''' *non-electronic units *double-sided unit at front of room plus *wall-mounted unit ar rear of room --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 429f4b49673920cca65a5e401b20544dacee99c6 522 521 2012-08-31T11:25:36Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki Opportunities are available for: * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant Also provided are some details on the equipment available in the training room == Training Bookings Coordinator == ''content invited'' == Trainer == ''content invited'' == Trainer Assistant == ''content invited'' == Equipment == ''content invited'' === Training Room === '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #*cabled for HDMI or VGA input #*optimum resolution 1280 x 800 #older, contingency, projector held #*1024 x 768 resolution #*VGA only input '''Computers''' #12 identical units, plus 13th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible **Lexmark Optra T640 high speed printer '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request **Canon D660U,suitable only for basic traininig --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] == Resources == ''content invited'' === Media Room === === Training Room === see Equipment section, above, for more technical detail of the equipment resources '''Projector''' #available for use by all Trainers & Presenters #*modern, wide-screen DLP unit, mounted overhead #accepts input from Computers/Laptops, VCR, PVR, USB sticks #older, contingency, projector held '''Computers''' #identical units #*1 for trainer/presenter #*11 for students, plus 12th spare (held in store room) #*run Windows 7, including XP Virtual Machine, well #*17" LCD monitors (not wide-screen) #*internal DVD+-RW drives '''Internet Access''' #wired access enabled from all computers #wireless access, for other devices, can be enabled, on request #wired & WiFi networks protected by Firewall '''Wireless Sound''' *provides "mcro PA" for Trainer/Presenter '''Printing''' *network mono laser (located in main office) accessible '''Scanners''' *basic, USB desktop scanners can be deployed, on request '''Server''' *LAN access to Windows 2003 server **storage and printing services only accessible from Training Room '''White Board''' *non-electronic units *double-sided unit at front of room plus *wall-mounted unit ar rear of room --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] bcccbb039c06d18ef1415a9868b2be3a16480d44 0 111 523 512 2012-08-31T11:27:00Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please a browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * scheduling of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * ''other information about current activities TBA'' == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] e66938f3ca5ee7d440f3813908dfbd9bf158f606 524 523 2012-08-31T13:10:01Z Offcmngr 6 Grammatical correction in into: "Please a browse ..." now reads "Please browse ..." wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * scheduling of volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * ''other information about current activities TBA'' == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] fca4ac249f8069fff9ba2d0bba47e3a85dab6964 2 95 526 467 2012-09-01T00:04:46Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.1 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === �*performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR. New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems #re-formatting * (such drives have no == Strictly for Geeks == * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 4f958e977e8573467259fdd7db4db70035f7d1f1 527 526 2012-09-01T01:07:31Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.1 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == == Getting Technical == A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no formal name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/ http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Advanced Format Drives === �*performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR. New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems #re-formatting * (such drives have no == Strictly for Geeks == the partitioning tool '''gdisk''' that is downloadable from * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] e5cebfe1567392cc3cd625933df48712275d94df 528 527 2012-09-01T01:14:18Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.1 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == == Getting Technical == A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/ http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Advanced Format Drives === �*performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR. New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems #re-formatting * (such drives have no == Strictly for Geeks == the partitioning tool '''gdisk''' that is downloadable from * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 1cf10893e84e2782502ef2cfe85667051606c281 535 528 2012-09-04T00:32:24Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.1 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == == Getting Technical == A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Advanced Format Drives === �*performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR. New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems #re-formatting * (such drives have no == Strictly for Geeks == the partitioning tool '''gdisk''' that is downloadable from * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 7943543425d5429a72b445edc8a930ffae07dd4b 536 535 2012-09-04T00:33:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.1 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == == Getting Technical == A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Advanced Format Drives === �*performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR. New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems #re-formatting * (such drives have no == Strictly for Geeks == the partitioning tool '''gdisk''' that is downloadable from * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b8009029fdc96880bd4de86199005a8e959b6b32 538 536 2012-09-05T01:53:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.1 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT the partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 374b32452c42729875a3db5074b6c50b6dcd998f 560 538 2012-09-06T00:26:13Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT the partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 8738b3e2dc2309d91b91e933da9fbf805173882e 565 560 2012-09-06T07:04:02Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] d67d274ca099e9f6b5f9b9fb67f7460998c5bcd7 0 75 529 412 2012-09-01T04:12:59Z Pblair 10 /* The learning curve */ wikitext text/x-wiki When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs (including PCUG, whose web pages and wikis are all 'hosted')) and is quite affordable. The TIP wiki gives some idea of cost at http://tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Hosting ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) and Mac (at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-macosx.html).. all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. [[Category:Technical Info]] 35ca6cf7fbd9346b1a31f5d23850454fe0091521 0 4 530 440 2012-09-02T01:26:38Z Krja 9 AGM info added wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item Date 01 September 2012'''''<br/> *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be announced at this time. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (topic TBA) =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item Date 21 August 2012'''''<br/> *The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. *The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, the week-end office arrangements are under review, with Sunday staffing arrangements on hold until further notice. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods. *For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 21 August 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] e9d8caef09dac4edfd21fec209f6feb4d6586636 531 530 2012-09-02T01:31:16Z Krja 9 PCUG Office Hours - update to include note of weekend closure confirmed. wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item Date 01 September 2012'''''<br/> *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be announced at this time. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (topic TBA) =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs)''' == '''''Item Date 21 August 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 8c69b66f99e70047f656d4af0b2b7ab540e6a0e5 532 531 2012-09-02T01:33:11Z Krja 9 Training Room Hire - now available to commercial organisations wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item Date 01 September 2012'''''<br/> *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be announced at this time. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (topic TBA) =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] b43a750fb5ebb31743f86990f38985ffd187a85f 533 532 2012-09-02T05:21:25Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Annual General Meeting */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item Date 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be announced at this time. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (topic TBA) === Presentation Topic === *Options for Presentation topic are currently under consideration. *Suggestions or volunteer(s) are welcome to the PCUG Office Manager ===Volunteer of the Year for 2012=== *The Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be decided at the Committee meeting on 17 September, 2012 for announcement at the AGM *Nominations for this award are welcome to the PCUG Committee or Office Manager before this day, with a brief statement of reasoning for this nomination. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] fc4deca38b5feb371d57906d520d6291c97febbd 0 6 534 413 2012-09-04T00:15:09Z Krja 9 adding September 12 ASCCA newsletter link wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] f3d1d684d157586b9e232c250caba49d2c5f0177 537 534 2012-09-04T01:01:25Z Lpb 2 Fix format on Sept ASCCA newsletter wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] ac4876ac114153a86a8f4f04acae0f1c34c0b8ec 0 112 540 2012-09-05T02:25:53Z Offcmngr 6 Wiki Editing Training Info wikitext text/x-wiki == WIKI EDITING == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking encourage member to share information via this tool. Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki, using reference information pages created by Lawrie. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guides to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 19 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 placed open to ny PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''This fee will be waivered for any regular volunteer, and who agrees to use this information to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). d10867eaad285d256c27964f5e739899fa4069dd 542 540 2012-09-05T02:51:30Z Offcmngr 6 Introduction Information for page wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == WIKI EDITING == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking encourage member to share information via this tool. Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki, using reference information pages created by Lawrie. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guides to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 19 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 placed open to ny PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''This fee will be waivered for any regular volunteer, and who agrees to use this information to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TRAINING == *info to follow d89b8773b9e0f9feabc38e38b268aacba590d8c7 543 542 2012-09-05T02:52:07Z Offcmngr 6 /* WIKI EDITING */ wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking encourage member to share information via this tool. Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki, using reference information pages created by Lawrie. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guides to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 19 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 placed open to ny PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''This fee will be waivered for any regular volunteer, and who agrees to use this information to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TRAINING == *info to follow 81ca03c3ef6733aeb76c1531c01e3b77a23d756b 544 543 2012-09-05T02:52:33Z Offcmngr 6 /* ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TRAINING */ wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking encourage member to share information via this tool. Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki, using reference information pages created by Lawrie. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guides to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 19 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 placed open to ny PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''This fee will be waivered for any regular volunteer, and who agrees to use this information to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) == *info to follow d158f5ddfee4c780566fdf756566fe6cd0c37893 547 544 2012-09-05T04:03:27Z Offcmngr 6 Catergory update wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking encourage member to share information via this tool. Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki, using reference information pages created by Lawrie. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guides to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 19 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 placed open to ny PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''This fee will be waivered for any regular volunteer, and who agrees to use this information to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) == *info to follow [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 32c5c8b5104120e472eacbe2ef3b403f662afab8 550 547 2012-09-05T05:57:58Z Lpb 2 Update info on wiki editing course wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 19 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) == *info to follow [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] c637d4d26f28926debc867e811d12df532d8b13f 562 550 2012-09-06T02:55:23Z Offcmngr 6 wiki course date change to 26/9 wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) == *info to follow [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] ccc80f5f43467d33d24c7e6bda0ecf909a24169f 0 113 548 2012-09-05T04:04:07Z Offcmngr 6 Catergory update wikitext text/x-wiki Information to follow [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] c4ee1b76661a6da40dac731f55a6f7d43e5a340e 0 7 551 509 2012-09-05T07:35:29Z Rpeters 14 /* Disks */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== * ===== Advanced Format (AF) Drives ===== coming soon ===== Solid State Drives (SSD) ===== Most SSD have SATA III (6 Gb/s) Interface. Older mainboards having only SATA II controllers *will deliver only half the advertised speed *might not operate an SSD at all [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:35, 5 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] |- |}` |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 6e1ecabb102b6b6b13a98a2f140e4ee1cc19d05a 552 551 2012-09-05T07:36:26Z Rpeters 14 /* Hardware */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== ===== Advanced Format (AF) Drives ===== coming soon ===== Solid State Drives (SSD) ===== Most SSD have SATA III (6 Gb/s) Interface. Older mainboards having only SATA II controllers *will deliver only half the advertised speed *might not operate an SSD at all [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:35, 5 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] |- |}` |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 5256e4de56a504abf192016e55b133306c668aa0 553 552 2012-09-05T07:36:56Z Rpeters 14 /* Disks */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== ===== Advanced Format (AF) Drives ===== coming soon ===== Solid State Drives (SSD) ===== Most SSD have SATA III (6 Gb/s) Interface. Older mainboards having only SATA II controllers *will deliver only half the advertised speed *might not operate an SSD at all [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:35, 5 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] c2dcec653f726d25a9338048d2cb1ee4608c1211 554 553 2012-09-05T07:38:27Z Rpeters 14 /* Advanced Format (AF) Drives */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== [[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] ===== Solid State Drives (SSD) ===== Most SSD have SATA III (6 Gb/s) Interface. Older mainboards having only SATA II controllers *will deliver only half the advertised speed *might not operate an SSD at all [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:35, 5 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 35beb29afb717c6df83eb594c4e56c0ca5782d53 555 554 2012-09-05T07:39:38Z Rpeters 14 /* Hardware */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== [[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] [[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 8e79655c54b494d24817d2ed0b92965d801fd2e6 558 555 2012-09-05T07:41:49Z Rpeters 14 /* Disks */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 6f6b645199174a8f0e735f8783c804101369bb3f 559 558 2012-09-05T12:09:21Z Lpb 2 Fix close rows and table wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] d3df8bd6f23d39549c6b50a815c900a1619efbde 0 114 556 2012-09-05T07:40:15Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "Most SSD have SATA III (6 Gb/s) Interface. Older mainboards having only SATA II controllers *will deliver only half the advertised speed *might not operate an SSD at all [[Use…" wikitext text/x-wiki Most SSD have SATA III (6 Gb/s) Interface. Older mainboards having only SATA II controllers *will deliver only half the advertised speed *might not operate an SSD at all [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:35, 5 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] f6d550b74150440b8774380ebbbe812e69603bb3 0 115 557 2012-09-05T07:41:08Z Rpeters 14 added heading wikitext text/x-wiki coming soon [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:41, 5 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 13b4cc936dd4d8bc3af874490143111f6f495d4b 563 557 2012-09-06T05:36:11Z Rpeters 14 added sections for general users and getting technical wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors === Advantages === *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives === Disadvantages === *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted, whether obtained as part of a system, in an external case or as a "bare" new drive. AF drives are: *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.19 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no universally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter partitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.19 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers. The technology transition point is indistinct: *SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) *newer SATA 2 (aka 3 Gb/sec) are ''likely'' to work The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layoutcoming soon === Re-formatting MBR === It is technically possible to reformat AF drives to MBR. This should be a last resort, used only to cope with older OS *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:36, 6 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 8955e52de736a9a69bfd24e039f3eedf9b03b29e 564 563 2012-09-06T06:44:24Z Rpeters 14 clarified for drives over 2.19 TB wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors === Advantages === *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives === Disadvantages === *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted, whether obtained as part of a system, in an external case or as a "bare" new drive. AF drives are: *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.19 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no universally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter partitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.19 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers. The technology transition point for recognising the full capacity is indistinct: *SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) should *newer SATA 2 (aka 3 Gb/sec) are ''likely'' to The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layoutcoming soon === Re-formatting MBR === It is technically possible to reformat AF drives to MBR. This should be a last resort, used only to cope with older OS *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:36, 6 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 6078b3465d9735a3972f7fa6c71e07e2e9de17d0 0 1 561 397 2012-09-06T02:54:22Z Offcmngr 6 extra descrition of what type of info can be found .. wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including Training Courses, SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> f54c88aaa3572bd41b349b47100bc3eb125b413f 0 112 566 562 2012-09-06T08:35:19Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) */ wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) == *info to follow [abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 8dc24734d3606c2832f55f390a175fad1b589fc9 567 566 2012-09-06T08:48:28Z Offcmngr 6 ABC content wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *Participants: Limit 11, *Cost $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. (Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week). *''(The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full)''. *Venue: PCUG, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *Details of the content for each session of the course is available at http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ *Contact: [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] * Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013. [[abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf]] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] f5b68e824a836b16053a6663fee6b43494015a97 568 567 2012-09-06T09:00:55Z Offcmngr 6 abc content formatting wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11, *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. (Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week). ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. *Contact: [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013. *Details of session for scheduled classes is available at [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar PCUG Events Calendar] or overviewed in the flyer [[abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf]] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 57f18a4fc67c1ff5a7145bb087c9a23c66b71625 569 568 2012-09-06T09:03:22Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11, *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. (Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week). ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013 [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the flyer [[abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf]] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 0d48ab607e652b46991c84bbba32a4fcd85d237d 570 569 2012-09-06T09:12:09Z Offcmngr 6 link to abc brochure wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11, *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/>''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013 [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] b6394d7b1ce2336f3de4a46b963408a347c25aef 571 570 2012-09-06T09:14:24Z Offcmngr 6 ABC participants U3A or PCUG wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': ''Limit 11 Members from either PCUG or U3A may apply, or new enquiries welcome to join'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/>''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013 [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] e8a18d444e6f9546b82259645ea2ee2bfe77bc02 572 571 2012-09-06T09:14:56Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Members from either PCUG or U3A may apply, or new enquiries welcome to join'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/>''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013 [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 3611bb322675ee7096a5fedca149b4cccd5940be 573 572 2012-09-06T09:26:37Z Offcmngr 6 grammar corrections in bookings ABC wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Members from either PCUG or U3A may apply, or new enquiries welcome to join'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] da010ffab1aa62a6b4d29d3b71d39583d984f046 574 573 2012-09-06T13:57:09Z Gjpotts 16 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Members from either PCUG or U3A may apply, or new enquiries welcome to join'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 9cf1f4a03648c74a947cf5280f8d54abd3963e74 599 574 2012-09-17T12:20:54Z Lpb 2 Add non-member fee for wiki editing course & tweak wording wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Members from either PCUG or U3A may apply, or new enquiries welcome to join'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 6e6b88ab3ef9bd6d4cb7a1cc5974ee332c0b7641 0 7 575 559 2012-09-07T07:26:12Z Offcmngr 6 Addition of SPAM subject wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * Spam * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 32535bb215469ee428013f7b4d76338e01745021 576 575 2012-09-07T07:27:29Z Offcmngr 6 Spam page link wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e63ce80e60cdeb07f42c648fdbb2413abfc2153b 577 576 2012-09-07T22:56:52Z Rpeters 14 /* Hardware */ added sub-compact computers section & raspberry pi category wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Raspberry Pi)]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 7e5fbc92e0188baa09ffb8ab19e9423285fa59ae 578 577 2012-09-07T22:57:27Z Rpeters 14 /* Sub-Compact Computers */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 7984395efbbf22e69eb20fb078910133db09c8b3 580 578 2012-09-07T23:26:59Z Rpeters 14 /* Sub-Compact Computers */ added MK802 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] de549a2497998d1ff64549c7298ab4cd8206b852 582 580 2012-09-08T00:00:53Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ added GPT wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 72856ce1ceb95bdabd1d15d3fa62aa087424aca9 592 582 2012-09-09T02:37:21Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8: Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 65965ecee0987609b1eba97cad91d2fbb5b1482a 593 592 2012-09-09T02:37:46Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 72856ce1ceb95bdabd1d15d3fa62aa087424aca9 594 593 2012-09-09T02:38:19Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8: Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 65965ecee0987609b1eba97cad91d2fbb5b1482a 603 594 2012-09-18T03:44:38Z Rpeters 14 /* Vector Drawing */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8: Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a7acf9542843770030fe51584d315ba062cf634e 605 603 2012-09-18T04:00:41Z Rpeters 14 /* Vector Drawing */ added stub for Inkscape wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8: Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 1c57de14a8ca804e26113b9a55431593babe3ca3 606 605 2012-09-18T04:04:43Z Rpeters 14 /* Image and Photo Editing */ added section for GIMP wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8: Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] c3f3c96e740dd3c80a585c5ee494ad10680f1cbc 610 606 2012-09-18T04:19:24Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] fb29962fe2759054c169e9099ba6086a72670c52 612 610 2012-09-20T11:19:05Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ added topic additional HDD wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additionsl HDD]] *[[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] bd210f79f6c5e1a9794f3d1b170b116706bb503b 613 612 2012-09-20T11:31:04Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a760fb95d30e52494b190c2df3649c85cf3c04fc 0 116 579 2012-09-07T23:23:25Z Rpeters 14 added info re fragile capacitor & power supplies wikitext text/x-wiki A growing body of information is available at http://www.raspberrypi.org Only a couple of '''critical''' issues, that are easily overlooked, are summarised below == Circuit Board == Power is supplied via the micro-USB connector at one end. The surface-mounted capacitor behind that connector is a known physical weak-point. *do not grip the board by that capacitor *preferably leave the micro-USB power cable permanently plugged in and power ON?OFF by either **powering the plug-pack/USB-hub ON?OFF or **disconnecting the other end of the power cable == Power Supply == #A raspberry pi draws 0.7A (700 mA) of '''regulated''' 5V power, which is beyond the capacity of most: #*USB sockets on a computer #*mains-USB plug packs #Suitable power supplies include #*mains-USB plug packs rated at 1A #**preferably having a '''single''' USB socket only #*USB-hubs capable to delivering 1 A to a '''single''' USB socket #**"Zipp" brand from Big W does - but check before purchasing #although the use of a USB-hub as a power source is deprecated by the manufacturers, it has been used sucessfully by the developers at http://www.ipfire.org. Critical factors are: #*regulated power to the hub #*1 A available to a single socket [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]09:23, 8 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 8ce025431039547e952c00f0191d49fe44fa4194 0 117 581 2012-09-07T23:32:04Z Rpeters 14 added overview wikitext text/x-wiki Although not much larger than a USB thumb drive, this computer requires an external monitor, keyboard & mouse. Might be of some use to travellers. See https://www.miniand.com/products/MK802%20Android%20Mini%20PC [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]09:32, 8 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] f3b145a6721cd2767831fa9ffff8399dca67c5de 0 118 583 2012-09-08T00:27:05Z Rpeters 14 initial version wikitext text/x-wiki == Support == #booting and utilising GPT-partitioned disks is supported by the kernel & core utilities #*many distributions, particularly smalller ones, do not implement this support by default #**a pointer to lack of support is that the live-CD boots & runs normally, but the installer finds no suitable HDD == Pre-Requisites == === Bootloader === either #GPT-aware bootloader #*patched GRUB >= 0.97 #*GRUB 2 #*elilo #second boot device #*CD/DVD #*USB #*MBR HDD === Kernel & Utilities === #the bootloader, wherever located, must then boot an operating system, that is GPT-aware [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]10:27, 8 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 798d624b0dd9581a322b4175508f2ed1d3d150cb 0 4 584 533 2012-09-08T07:20:00Z Offcmngr 6 wiki editing training course added wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == TRAINING COURSE: Wiki Editing == '''''Item Date 08 September 2012'''''<br/> * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': Wednesday 26 September 10am - midday, * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': Lawrie Brown * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item Date 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be announced at this time. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (topic TBA) === Presentation Topic === *Options for Presentation topic are currently under consideration. *Suggestions or volunteer(s) are welcome to the PCUG Office Manager ===Volunteer of the Year for 2012=== *The Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be decided at the Committee meeting on 17 September, 2012 for announcement at the AGM *Nominations for this award are welcome to the PCUG Committee or Office Manager before this day, with a brief statement of reasoning for this nomination. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] c98a644e9349fddbb1b0c217adaf0df75dc08e77 1 119 585 2012-09-08T07:28:19Z Cwijones 18 Added suggestion of more-suitable Title. wikitext text/x-wiki I don't understand why "Editing" is in the title. Given that the title and first sentence are: Editing Windows 8 Usefuls To help make the transition I think that a more suitable title would be "Making the transition to Windows 8 - Usefuls". (Member: cwijones) --[[User:Cwijones|Cwijones]] 17:28, 8 September 2012 (EST) f2c609a809c8f9a9fcd2069e11f226b534e8bf62 586 585 2012-09-08T07:28:37Z Cwijones 18 wikitext text/x-wiki I don't understand why "Editing" is in the title. Given that the title and first sentence are: Editing Windows 8 Usefuls To help make the transition I think that a more suitable title would be "Making the transition to Windows 8 - Usefuls". --[[User:Cwijones|Cwijones]] 17:28, 8 September 2012 (EST) ebdddf2999341d6961fd091b909ff6fdcb362077 588 586 2012-09-08T08:34:46Z Cwijones 18 Added line break wikitext text/x-wiki I don't understand why "Editing" is in the title. Given that the title and first sentence are: Editing Windows 8 Usefuls To help make the transition I think that a more suitable title would be "Making the transition to Windows 8 - Usefuls". --[[User:Cwijones|Cwijones]] 17:28, 8 September 2012 (EST) 0300aa37dbddeda4ff11a2284513ca4fb560267a 1 120 587 2012-09-08T08:27:12Z Cwijones 18 Added suggestion to provide more information. wikitext text/x-wiki It would be helful to provide links to more information about "CUPS" - eg to [http://www.cups.org/ CUPS org site] and to [http://www.cups.org/articles.php?L176+TFAQ+Q What Is CUPS?] - and to explain that it was initially an acronym for 'Common UNIX Print Subsystem' (see [http://uw714doc.sco.com/cgi-bin/man?mansearchword=chprnsys&amp;mansection=8 chprnsys(8)]). Similar comments apply to the corresponding [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Sharing_Printers_via_CUPS TIP article]. --[[User:Cwijones|Cwijones]] 18:27, 8 September 2012 (EST) c0d87fafa93275a992aa6894797e55431be99f9d 589 587 2012-09-08T08:39:04Z Cwijones 18 Corrected link for TIP article wikitext text/x-wiki It would be helful to provide links to more information about "CUPS" - eg to [http://www.cups.org/ CUPS org site] and to [http://www.cups.org/articles.php?L176+TFAQ+Q What Is CUPS?] - and to explain that it was initially an acronym for 'Common UNIX Print Subsystem' (see [http://uw714doc.sco.com/cgi-bin/man?mansearchword=chprnsys&amp;mansection=8 chprnsys(8)]). Similar comments apply to the corresponding [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Sharing_Printers_via_CUPS TIP article]. --[[User:Cwijones|Cwijones]] 18:27, 8 September 2012 (EST) 6ab3e15ab99934caa12cf182f0993ce5cef4faab 0 93 590 448 2012-09-08T08:52:59Z Cwijones 18 Added links to information about UEFI wikitext text/x-wiki === Scope === The following are now treated as removable media, in additon to the traditional Floppy & CD?DVD drives *USB "flash/pen drives" *USB card readers *inbuilt SD readers *external drives **HDD **CD/DVD/Blueray === Selecting Boot Device === #This task has become more complicated in recent years as a result of: #*trend towards removable media devices being set to DISABLED by default, as a counter to malware #*increasing variety of removable media devices #*migration to UEFI firmware, which has different procedures #possible device types i might be recognised as #*"CDROM" for ''internal'' optical drive #*"USB CDROM" for ''external'' optical drive #*"USB CDROM" for USB drive written from standard dotISO #*"USB HDD" for USB drive written from hybrid dotISO #*"SD" for ''internal'' SD drive #*USB card readers and flash/pen drives might appear to firmware as either #**USB FDD or #**USB HDD #**depending on how the software installed to them was complied #**no harm in trying one or the other, until boot is achieved #The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer ==== BIOS ==== *usually by pressing F11 at POST stage - sometimes other keys such as F12, F8 #then select relevant device type #then select relevant "drive" #followed by relevant OS, if more than one on the drive *computers earlier than about 2004 may have limited ability to boot external devices ==== UEFI ==== For an introduction, see [http://www.uefi.org/about/ About the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface Forum] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unified_Extensible_Firmware_Interface Wikipedia article]. --[[User:Cwijones|Cwijones]] 18:52, 8 September 2012 (EST) *usually requires entering "Setup" mode for firmware **usually by pressing DEL at POST stage *doing so will require password, if one set in CMOS #navigate to "Boot" tab #select "Boot Override" #select relevant "drive" #followed by relevant OS, if more than one on the drive --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 50cf8e0a6aac375439cf893b35f44fd0b0f2852a 0 115 591 564 2012-09-08T23:27:38Z Rpeters 14 added linke to MS FAQ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors === Advantages === *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives === Disadvantages === *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted, whether obtained as part of a system, in an external case or as a "bare" new drive. AF drives are: *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.19 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier (GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no universally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. ==== Windows & AF ==== GPT is not universally supported for all versions of Windows. Consequently AF drives night be poorly utilised. See http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/device/storage/GPT_FAQ.mspx Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter partitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.19 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers. The technology transition point for recognising the full capacity is indistinct: *SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) should *newer SATA 2 (aka 3 Gb/sec) are ''likely'' to The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layoutcoming soon === Re-formatting MBR === It is technically possible to reformat AF drives to MBR. This should be a last resort, used only to cope with older OS *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:36, 6 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] cdd401d417275ce463e02bcd5f9c0c2d984e3280 0 121 595 2012-09-09T02:38:28Z Pblair 10 Created page with "To help make the transition: * [http://sourceforge.net/projects/classicshell/?source=directory Add classic Start menu] * [http://tinyurl.com/9dk7qka Keyboard & Navigation shortc…" wikitext text/x-wiki To help make the transition: * [http://sourceforge.net/projects/classicshell/?source=directory Add classic Start menu] * [http://tinyurl.com/9dk7qka Keyboard & Navigation shortcuts] * [http://tinyurl.com/8k9ua84 How to Add the Old Control Panel to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/7v8yjuz How to Boot to the Desktop & Skip Metro in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9c7cfu4 Go Directly to Desktop Mode in Windows 8 on Login (Without Installing Extra Software)] * [http://tinyurl.com/98zoxvv How to Name Groups of Apps on the Windows 8 Metro Start Screen] * [http://tinyurl.com/9apth8n How to Pin Apps or Folders to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9f8xycc Organize Tiles into Groups on the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9nushlp Pin Your Favorite Websites to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/8pqlq5a How to Make Windows 8 Metro Web Tiles Open in the Desktop Browser] * [http://tinyurl.com/8t6d62p Beginner: How to Disable a Live Tile in Windows 8] Ignore the references to the Metro screen - think instead of the UI screen. Credits: How-to Geeks/SourceForge/Microsoft [[Category:Technical Info]] bbf0158c8e2e064281420a92e538a0692bd0ccbf 597 595 2012-09-15T05:30:02Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki To help make the transition: * [http://sourceforge.net/projects/classicshell/?source=directory Add classic Start menu] * [http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/ Another Start menu] * [http://tinyurl.com/9dk7qka Keyboard & Navigation shortcuts] * [http://tinyurl.com/8k9ua84 How to Add the Old Control Panel to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/7v8yjuz How to Boot to the Desktop & Skip Metro in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9c7cfu4 Go Directly to Desktop Mode in Windows 8 on Login (Without Installing Extra Software)] * [http://tinyurl.com/98zoxvv How to Name Groups of Apps on the Windows 8 Metro Start Screen] * [http://tinyurl.com/9apth8n How to Pin Apps or Folders to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9f8xycc Organize Tiles into Groups on the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9nushlp Pin Your Favorite Websites to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/8pqlq5a How to Make Windows 8 Metro Web Tiles Open in the Desktop Browser] * [http://tinyurl.com/8t6d62p Beginner: How to Disable a Live Tile in Windows 8] Ignore the references to the Metro screen - think instead of the UI screen. Credits: How-to Geeks/SourceForge/Microsoft [[Category:Technical Info]] abea9bee63cec807cff5467db2d775fcb40593ef 608 597 2012-09-18T04:18:32Z Pblair 10 moved [[Editing Windows 8: Usefuls]] to [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]]:&#32;The colon has an editing value that I forgot about :-( wikitext text/x-wiki To help make the transition: * [http://sourceforge.net/projects/classicshell/?source=directory Add classic Start menu] * [http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/ Another Start menu] * [http://tinyurl.com/9dk7qka Keyboard & Navigation shortcuts] * [http://tinyurl.com/8k9ua84 How to Add the Old Control Panel to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/7v8yjuz How to Boot to the Desktop & Skip Metro in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9c7cfu4 Go Directly to Desktop Mode in Windows 8 on Login (Without Installing Extra Software)] * [http://tinyurl.com/98zoxvv How to Name Groups of Apps on the Windows 8 Metro Start Screen] * [http://tinyurl.com/9apth8n How to Pin Apps or Folders to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9f8xycc Organize Tiles into Groups on the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9nushlp Pin Your Favorite Websites to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/8pqlq5a How to Make Windows 8 Metro Web Tiles Open in the Desktop Browser] * [http://tinyurl.com/8t6d62p Beginner: How to Disable a Live Tile in Windows 8] Ignore the references to the Metro screen - think instead of the UI screen. Credits: How-to Geeks/SourceForge/Microsoft [[Category:Technical Info]] abea9bee63cec807cff5467db2d775fcb40593ef 3 122 596 2012-09-09T02:40:25Z Pblair 10 Created page with "I added the colon that was meant to be in the original. Thanks for pointing out the poor header! Paul" wikitext text/x-wiki I added the colon that was meant to be in the original. Thanks for pointing out the poor header! Paul 67d7dcd74e79faa22b190fc7763d90d40d1c35b4 2 123 598 2012-09-16T11:31:00Z Cwijones 18 Note about old Win8 page still existing wikitext text/x-wiki Hi Paul You posted "I added the colon that was meant to be in the original. Thanks for pointing out the poor header! Paul" on my User Page. However, it seems that (whether intended or not) the PCUG Wiki now contains [http://pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Editing_Windows_8:_Usefuls the new page] as well as [http://pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Editing_Windows_8_Usefuls the original page]. It seems that your use of "Editing" in the Title is in the sense of "Modifying" or "Personalising". Regards, Peter --[[User:Cwijones|Cwijones]] 21:31, 16 September 2012 (EST) 087b74d44fa84cc4845aa3b595c105250f6ad063 0 1 600 561 2012-09-17T12:26:41Z Lpb 2 Add explicit link to Training Courses page along side Activities and Opportunities wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including Training Courses, SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> ca442701769329464ca23d32623e2b39572f6d06 601 600 2012-09-17T12:28:07Z Lpb 2 /* Activities and Opportunities and Training Courses */ explicit Training Courses link in text wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> 6d798520bbd90d507707ca2b9b734884b0a36714 0 16 602 468 2012-09-18T00:27:58Z Rpeters 14 added link to detailed procedure for Nero wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Windows users only #*other users see #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Writing ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media, as above #*but require this alternative procedure to achive their main advamtage of typically booting much faster #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 793be211187ea925ea904b665d8185d9f733a812 0 124 604 2012-09-18T03:58:42Z Rpeters 14 added overview for OpenOffice wikitext text/x-wiki The '''Draw''' module of OpenOffice can be a suitable tool for thiose: *not acquanted with drawing tools *not requiring a full-featured drawing package == Advantages == *speed of use **lesser learning curve for OpenOffice users **suffice for general layouts and simple objects *precise control of object position & size via F4 key *easily produce PDF file output **for transmission to collegues who are not Draw users == Disadvantages == *does not support many specialised CAD functions **limited scales **displaying precise dimensions is fiddly *data interchange with specialised drawing products not 100% reliable [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:58, 18 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] ce07449f294edc39be77f2d0ab9c0b8b1968a427 0 125 607 2012-09-18T04:07:23Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "== Advantages == #available for all major OS - Linux, Mac OS X, Windows #*drawing files portable between OS [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]~~~~~ [[Category:Technical Info]]" wikitext text/x-wiki == Advantages == #available for all major OS - Linux, Mac OS X, Windows #*drawing files portable between OS [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]14:07, 18 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 2fe313556775debb2a76b0dbfa4c248b4e2cfef6 0 126 609 2012-09-18T04:18:32Z Pblair 10 moved [[Editing Windows 8: Usefuls]] to [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]]:&#32;The colon has an editing value that I forgot about :-( wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] f7d1a3c58128a3946f7a5f28d75e75372b2c4392 0 127 611 2012-09-18T04:30:15Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "== Overview == GIMP, as with most photo/image editing tools, involves a steep learning curve. Many tasks require a sound understanding of the principles involved and the techn…" wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == GIMP, as with most photo/image editing tools, involves a steep learning curve. Many tasks require a sound understanding of the principles involved and the techniques via which those are implemented Also in common with other photo/image editing tools, GIMP files are very large, occupying *up to 800 MB of RAM *up to 200 MB of disk space per file **or several times this for files that are used with Mac OS X == Advantages == #freely downloadable #available for Linux Mac OS X & Windows #supports many export/import formats == Disadvantages == #less capablility in some functions, than expensive, commerical alternatives [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 757057ae2a39ac4aeef8820a6924f899c08528d5 2 95 614 565 2012-09-20T11:59:02Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt # [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 86cc46a9cbb1e3b56b06f5721ba119272d751639 0 128 615 2012-09-20T12:10:42Z Rpeters 14 outlined setting mount points & permissions for new partitions wikitext text/x-wiki Additional HDD require changes in system settings, in order to be visible and accessible. Exact changes depend on whether the storage is for system or user files. Additionall HDD must be partitioned, including if only one partititon is required *as of 2012, most new HDD are sold pre-parttitioned GPT, with a single partition *for guidance on changing partitioning see [[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] == User Storage == #a '''permanent''' mount point #*mount points /mnt & /media are for temporary mounts #*LSB makes no recommendations for permanent extra HDD #*suggested mount points are "/data" for LInux data or "/windows/C" for Windows drives #*admin tools such as Synaptic, Yast2 etc can be used to create and set mount points #user permissions for the '''mount point''' #*in the above example. recursively change the Group for /data to (say) "users" #*in the above example. recursively change the Owner for /data to the principal user #**if other users are also to have access to the additional storage then Group permisisons for /data need to be relaxed #*changes may be made via "File Manager - Super User Mode", if system allows that mode #*else use "chgrp" & "chown" commands == System Storage == #only the mount point need be changed #*admin tools such as Synaptic, Yast2 etc can be used to set mount points #*second HDD are likely to be most beneficially used in SOHO systems for one of /usr, /home or /srv [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]22:10, 20 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] e609aa123293d9a6ec8f52221c4a07013a585a63 0 128 616 615 2012-09-20T12:34:14Z Rpeters 14 added section re file migration wikitext text/x-wiki Additional HDD require changes in system settings, in order to be visible and accessible. Exact changes depend on whether the storage is for system or user files. Additionall HDD must be partitioned, including if only one partititon is required *as of 2012, most new HDD are sold pre-parttitioned GPT, with a single partition *for guidance on changing partitioning see [[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt/ #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == User Storage == #a '''permanent''' mount point is required #*mount points /mnt & /media are for temporary mounts #*LSB makes no recommendations for permanent extra HDD #*suggested mount points are "/data" for LInux data or "/windows/C" for Windows drives #*admin tools such as Synaptic, Yast2 etc can be used to create and set mount points #user permissions for the '''mount point''' #*in the above example. recursively change the Group for /data to (say) "users" #*in the above example. recursively change the Owner for /data to the principal user #**if other users are also to have access to the additional storage then Group permisisons for /data need to be relaxed #*changes may be made via "File Manager - Super User Mode", if system allows that mode #*else use "chgrp" & "chown" commands == System Storage == #only the mount point need be changed #*admin tools such as Synaptic, Yast2 etc can be used to set mount points #*second HDD are likely to be most beneficially used in SOHO systems for one of /usr, /home or /srv [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]22:10, 20 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] e5872208a8c6ad458b9c97d661d05f41d09450af 2 95 617 614 2012-09-20T12:35:23Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 9e9f301a35a154b42e52e92690b922bcdc90e141 618 617 2012-09-20T21:49:36Z Rpeters 14 added draft for firewalls wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ca5738a53e8545c41583c41eeb14dac14ad59dde 619 618 2012-09-20T22:43:03Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 29afc3a818698b928d27c4c78b4b283f6f4eccd4 620 619 2012-09-21T00:24:47Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 66b7804b8a202ffa071f493abcfa35e8ff82dce2 625 620 2012-09-21T01:34:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) DIY units overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology == Getting Technical == Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configures a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[ == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 872ea155c683e8fbac582ef2f21b1e9c9324c6d0 626 625 2012-09-21T02:00:49Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) DIY units overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology == Getting Technical == Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires much more *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **NB speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserve #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 6b9e66a852037396c510642fca59af3ef890107c 627 626 2012-09-21T03:10:31Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) DIY units overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology == Getting Technical == Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires much more *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **NB speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserve #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached released level for it [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] d110caa56cac10587e7e7f6f939dcd27778c4a04 628 627 2012-09-21T03:44:03Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) DIY units overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology == Getting Technical == Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires much more *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **NB speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached released level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapeted as a firewall/router for it [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ef66b3d79ccf1599ce480c9bafc76d41866eb4a8 632 628 2012-09-23T01:37:17Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:#004700">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:#blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#magenta">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#orange">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] eee9598b41573b512aefecd7839a0d9af6ca87e0 633 632 2012-09-23T07:42:43Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] f34ab6fb689a42720f1bdd0280e9f2c6aa9aa896 0 7 621 613 2012-09-21T00:27:54Z Rpeters 14 /* Software */ added section & category Firewall_Software wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] ae0efcdd82028ab0d76427522c1c6f32784b5942 623 621 2012-09-21T01:00:17Z Rpeters 14 /* Hardware */ added section & categories for gateway_router wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] b9e1f8d75865dcdd4b20249aadb029613bb5ffcb 636 623 2012-09-25T00:24:04Z Rpeters 14 /* Peripherals */ addded section for external drives wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 718fb20b493ec3eda848f08690a70670542acaf5 651 636 2012-09-26T01:58:48Z Sfrtest 5 /* Email */ add link to new Scams page wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 4d0ac9cc1742fd9e257b9682f1175b585357473e 0 129 622 2012-09-21T00:53:45Z Rpeters 14 outlined packet-filtering firewalls wikitext text/x-wiki == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps ==== Linux ==== Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface ==== Mac OSX ==== citation needed ==== Windows ==== citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update *provides protection to "visiting" laptops etc ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage **although often combined in a single unit with modem and/or ethernet switch *sporadic updates for commercial units **OTOH frequent updates available for DIY units == Recommendations == #most households now have more than one device accessing the Internet #*a separate Gateway/Router device makes sense in this scenario #portable devices (laptops, sub-compacts etc) should '''additionally''' have a filtering firewall enabled #*should not conflict with router, when at "home-base" For further recommendations see (Gateway_Router) [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]10:53, 21 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 843dddfac7ee236b5af8ce2c5db577ac1b0658a0 0 130 624 2012-09-21T01:12:20Z Rpeters 14 added section for general users wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at [[Firewall_Software]] A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option for most people *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a commercial router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable **dial-up users having intermediate skills could consider a DIY unit - see "Getting Technical" below == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **firmware updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == #A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox #*available from http://www.internode.on.net #*note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 #A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 #*this is a broadband router only (no modem) [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:12, 21 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 3d593e45c220e39e265c18c73b9231689858a690 0 131 629 2012-09-21T16:33:50Z Gjpotts 16 Info about spam wikitext text/x-wiki [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Here is a definition of <nowiki>"spam".</nowiki>] The term <nowiki>"spam"</nowiki> covers many different unsolicitied communications. Be suspicious of e-mails that arrive:- # Without a subject; # From a sender you do not know or recognize; # Offering something too good (even a $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true; # Without greeting you by name; # Having a file.zip attachment; # Containing a link and when you hover over it with a mouse it does not display a trustworthy webpage. Sites you can visit to find out more about <nowiki>"spam".</nowiki> are:- [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ For financial scams - ASIC] [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/ SCAMwatch Home Page- ACCC] [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx Internet Fraud & scams – AFP] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] 7e5b899129decfc9d24388fab926bbe090f3d4f4 630 629 2012-09-22T14:26:30Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Here is a definition of <nowiki>"spam".</nowiki>] The term <nowiki>"spam"</nowiki> covers many different unsolicitied communications. Be suspicious of e-mails that arrive:- # Without a subject; # From a sender you do not know or recognize; # Offering something too good (even a $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true; # Without greeting you by name; # Having a file.zip attachment; # Containing a link and when you hover over it with a mouse it does not display a trustworthy webpage. Sites you can visit to find out more about <nowiki>"scam".</nowiki> are:- [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ For financial scams - ASIC] [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/ SCAMwatch Home Page- ACCC] [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx Internet Fraud & scams – AFP] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] ad5dc5a1756f1682eac6ab1960170a97dc4e25b8 631 630 2012-09-22T14:34:20Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Here is a definition of <nowiki>"spam".</nowiki>] The term <nowiki>"spam"</nowiki> covers many different unsolicitied communications. Be suspicious of e-mails that arrive:- # Without a subject; # From a sender you do not know or recognize; # Offering something too good (even a $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true; # Without greeting you by name; # Having a file.zip attachment; # Containing a link and when you hover over it with a mouse it does not display a trustworthy webpage; # And ask for your personal details. Sites you can visit to find out more about <nowiki>"scam".</nowiki> are:- [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ For financial scams - ASIC] [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/ SCAMwatch Home Page- ACCC] [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx Internet Fraud & scams – AFP] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] a8959042efc1dc966217ed1dbf9c9e0eea809e58 664 631 2012-09-26T04:36:39Z Lpb 2 Add more details, sections & links wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Spam == As defined in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different unsolicitied communications. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive:- # Without a subject; # From a sender you do not know or recognize; # Offering something too good (even a $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true; # Without greeting you by name; # Having a file.zip attachment; # Containing a link and when you hover over it with a mouse it does not display a trustworthy webpage; # And ask for your personal details. == What Can You Do About Email Spam? == Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult (it wouldn't be the major concern that it is were this not so), you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam to yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept '''any''' form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you take to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. # make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's emails. Please note that whilst [http://www.tip.net.au/ PCUG/TIP] utilize some anti-spam measures, we '''do not''' employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and admin resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Spam TIP Wiki Spam page]. If these are not sufficient for your requirements, then you need to use some of the following alternatives. # make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your email client. Many email clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns what you regard as spam (or not). With sufficient training, this can help classify emails fairly well, as you wish. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or [https://www.tip.net.au/webmail/ webmail] to access your email. # [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email_Forwarding Forward your Email] to another ISP, or to a large web-email provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced email filters, and then access and read your email from this site. == Further Information == Sites you can visit to find out more about "spam" are:- * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] * [https://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs20-spam.htm Anti-Spam Consumer Resources and Information] * [http://www.spamtrackers.eu/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Spamtrackers SpamWiki] d344c745682a413f99579ecf28cc0f88a7aff15b 665 664 2012-09-26T04:38:14Z Lpb 2 Add link to scams page, and category wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Spam == As defined in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different unsolicitied communications. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive:- # Without a subject; # From a sender you do not know or recognize; # Offering something too good (even a $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true; # Without greeting you by name; # Having a file.zip attachment; # Containing a link and when you hover over it with a mouse it does not display a trustworthy webpage; # And ask for your personal details. == What Can You Do About Email Spam? == Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult (it wouldn't be the major concern that it is were this not so), you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam to yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept '''any''' form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you take to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. # make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's emails. Please note that whilst [http://www.tip.net.au/ PCUG/TIP] utilize some anti-spam measures, we '''do not''' employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and admin resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Spam TIP Wiki Spam page]. If these are not sufficient for your requirements, then you need to use some of the following alternatives. # make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your email client. Many email clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns what you regard as spam (or not). With sufficient training, this can help classify emails fairly well, as you wish. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or [https://www.tip.net.au/webmail/ webmail] to access your email. # [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email_Forwarding Forward your Email] to another ISP, or to a large web-email provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced email filters, and then access and read your email from this site. == Further Information == Sites you can visit to find out more about "spam" are:- * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] * [https://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs20-spam.htm Anti-Spam Consumer Resources and Information] * [http://www.spamtrackers.eu/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Spamtrackers SpamWiki] == See Also == * [[Scams]] - for details on scams, which may well be spread by spam [[Category:Technical Info]] 58b3e45930e1bcf8551506e44665154b1e58f280 0 132 634 2012-09-23T07:48:02Z Rpeters 14 added sections for "getting technical" & "strictly for geeks" wikitext text/x-wiki == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC === Hardware === Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage === Software === Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people === Zoning === Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:48, 23 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 37c521c86e3438c93f4ea581b2f1e3319b9cd763 0 88 635 460 2012-09-24T01:50:41Z Rpeters 14 added notere IPCop wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for those having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP (must ensure the download is '''directly''' from TIP server) #Ubuntu == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for those having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP (must ensure the download is '''directly''' from TIP server) #Debian #Ubuntu === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 56aaac9f86e04d0b7daf24fdb9a8fb627e2822a0 0 133 637 2012-09-25T00:46:03Z Rpeters 14 added suggestions to avoid overheating wikitext text/x-wiki HDD are always at risk of overheating, with attendant catastrophic failure, if inadequately cooled *older 3.5" drives consume up to 10 W *contemporary eco/green model drives consume up to 6W *low wattage models, such as WD Caviar Red, consume only ~ 4W Suggested practice is to do one of: #use a packaged external HDD #*relying on maniufacturer's assessment of cooling requirements #*but they might not have tested in Canberra summer #put HDD in metal generic cases only (3.5" drives, in particular) #*contemporary 2.5" drives typically consume <3W and might be OK in plastic cases #if using a plastic case try to find one having a fan #*will be noisy, but typically is only for occassional backup anyway HDD have been known to overheat in main boxes as well as in external cases. Good practice is: #pick a drive bay which appears to have good airflow through the front of the case #leave an unoccupied bay above & below HDD #*failing that, mount the highest wattage HDD via its base, in lieu sides, so that it is in contact with more metal Specialised NAS & server cases are generally designed for multiple HDD and do not require any special practice *other than ensuring unobstructed airflow at front & rear of case. [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] f3683864cf567fa8487b2ae3d38dce36cc6b7208 2 100 638 490 2012-09-25T05:27:38Z Sfrtest 5 Wipe content ready for next workshop wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 639 638 2012-09-26T01:05:27Z Sfrtest 5 Create initial version of page with 1 line description wikitext text/x-wiki [[User:Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] is '''Stephen Rothwell's''' test user account that Lawrie has swiped for training use. d2639e0a54d48b4a7c8f3d80aea828f5d8d80fe4 641 639 2012-09-26T01:16:20Z Sfrtest 5 demo page links and lists wikitext text/x-wiki [[User:Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] is '''Stephen Rothwell's''' test user account that [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] has swiped for training use. == Things That Interest Me == * computer security * dancing ** ballroom ** modern jive ** swing *** lindy hop *** west coast * the great outdoors ** bush walking ** skiing There are also things that annoy me # people who dont listen # people who talk over me 1486dd219d33482233c564d66f80869a62f01d18 647 641 2012-09-26T01:43:14Z Sfrtest 5 demo more links wikitext text/x-wiki [[User:Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] is '''Stephen Rothwell's''' test user account that [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] has swiped for training use. For more info on Lawrie see my [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ home page] I also like to look at the [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News - www.abc.net.au/news] outside, or the [[Newsletters]] and [[Activities and Opportunities|AndO]] page on this wiki. == Things That Interest Me == * computer security * dancing ** ballroom ** modern jive ** swing *** lindy hop *** west coast * the great outdoors ** bush walking ** skiing There are also things that annoy me # people who dont listen ## nadda 1 ## nadda 2 # people who talk over me 09acae442459d78a843f20eb9674470cd6fba485 648 647 2012-09-26T01:45:28Z Sfrtest 5 Remove lists examples and add pages worked on section wikitext text/x-wiki [[User:Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] is '''Stephen Rothwell's''' test user account that [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] has swiped for training use. For more info on Lawrie see my [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ home page] I also like to look at the [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News - www.abc.net.au/news] outside, or the [[Newsletters]] and [[Activities and Opportunities|AndO]] page on this wiki. == Pages Im Working On == [[Spam]] 20adc572f14c7694bf97ca6320d009f502094522 650 648 2012-09-26T01:53:53Z Sfrtest 5 Add links to Spam and Scams pages wikitext text/x-wiki [[User:Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] is '''Stephen Rothwell's''' test user account that [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] has swiped for training use. For more info on Lawrie see my [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ home page] I also like to look at the [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News - www.abc.net.au/news] outside, or the [[Newsletters]] and [[Activities and Opportunities|AndO]] page on this wiki. == Pages I'm Working On == * [[Spam]] * [[Scams]] 02ae6915553bdb815cfce3ec29f9f114a077a015 653 650 2012-09-26T02:09:51Z Sfrtest 5 Demo adding image wikitext text/x-wiki [[User:Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] is '''Stephen Rothwell's''' test user account that [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] has swiped for training use. For more info on Lawrie see my [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ home page] I also like to look at the [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News - www.abc.net.au/news] outside, or the [[Newsletters]] and [[Activities and Opportunities|AndO]] page on this wiki. == What Images look Like == [[File:globe_sculpture_cooma_2012.jpg]] == Pages I'm Working On == * [[Spam]] * [[Scams]] f45e1ae897ff3bac991220109abb34ea7dc88a82 658 653 2012-09-26T02:20:07Z Sfrtest 5 Show image options wikitext text/x-wiki [[User:Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] is '''Stephen Rothwell's''' test user account that [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] has swiped for training use. For more info on Lawrie see my [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ home page] I also like to look at the [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News - www.abc.net.au/news] outside, or the [[Newsletters]] and [[Activities and Opportunities|AndO]] page on this wiki. == What Images look Like == [[File:globe_sculpture_cooma_2012.jpg|thumb|98px|Sculpture by Monaro Highway]] == Pages I'm Working On == * [[Spam]] * [[Scams]] 011328333b4f5e148db83809dba0904d84c5a2d1 661 658 2012-09-26T02:29:45Z Sfrtest 5 wikitext text/x-wiki [[User:Sfrtest|Sfrtest]] is '''Stephen Rothwell's''' test user account that [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] has swiped for training use. For more info on Lawrie see my [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ home page] I also like to look at the [http://www.abc.net.au/news/ ABC News - www.abc.net.au/news] outside, or the [[Newsletters]] and [[Activities and Opportunities|AndO]] page on this wiki. == What Images look Like == [[File:globe_sculpture_cooma_2012.jpg|center|98px|Sculpture by Monaro Highway]] == Pages I'm Working On == * [[Spam]] * [[Scams]] * [[Draft]] 09b7e6524189c5d2bae1a26aafa3f90e65b88332 2 134 640 2012-09-26T01:05:35Z Brock 21 Create an initial version of this page. wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''Brock Bryce's''' first attempt to create a Wiki page. 38bd02dc33058cac6fbfce7eb4be56d26a609036 642 640 2012-09-26T01:18:50Z Brock 21 Creation of a side heading. wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''Brock Bryce's''' first attempt to create a Wiki page. == NRL Match This Weekend == Melbourne Storm vs the Bulldogs. 834cb0ea937ba3793a38aed43b0741f8afa1b29c 644 642 2012-09-26T01:31:14Z Brock 21 Entered an external link. wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''Brock Bryce's''' first attempt to create a Wiki page. == NRL Match This Weekend == Melbourne Storm vs the Bulldogs. The result can be found from the [http://www.abc.net.au/news ABC News]. 4b6ef8b717b9efe013511b0f276ffcf07e97f6de 646 644 2012-09-26T01:36:24Z Brock 21 Added link to Google Mail. wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''Brock Bryce's''' first attempt to create a Wiki page. == NRL Match This Weekend == Melbourne Storm vs the Bulldogs. The result can be found from the [http://www.abc.net.au/news ABC News]. To use Google Mail click on [https://accounts.google.com/ServiceLogin?service=mail&passive=true&rm=false&continue=https://mail.google.com/mail/?shva%3D1&ss=1&scc=1&ltmpl=default&ltmplcache=2 Google Mail]. 4977b78e41a2c26ed28fc17f3aa7c0ab8d6a9cda 655 646 2012-09-26T02:13:20Z Brock 21 Added link to nonexistent page. wikitext text/x-wiki This is '''Brock Bryce's''' first attempt to create a Wiki page. == NRL Match This Weekend == Melbourne Storm vs the Bulldogs. The result can be found from the [http://www.abc.net.au/news ABC News]. To use Google Mail click on [https://accounts.google.com/ServiceLogin?service=mail&passive=true&rm=false&continue=https://mail.google.com/mail/?shva%3D1&ss=1&scc=1&ltmpl=default&ltmplcache=2 Google Mail]. Here is a link to an internal page [[text|link to a nonexistent page]] 7591576f9fc1feb0a6526b6e7479f4b1fe9d0267 2 135 643 2012-09-26T01:29:22Z Jsaxon 20 First go at a WIKI page wikitext text/x-wiki This is a test page by '''John Saxon''' during the PCUG WIKI course.'''This should be bold'''. This is a [www.jsaxon.org] a link to my home page This is an internal link [[Newsletters]] to the WIKI news letters af5012d842b2bc1639d037a39f754ffee214567d 645 643 2012-09-26T01:33:14Z Jsaxon 20 Updated an external link wikitext text/x-wiki This is a test page by '''John Saxon''' during the PCUG WIKI course.'''This should be bold'''. This is a [http://www.jsaxon.org] a link to my home page This is an internal link [[Newsletters]] to the WIKI news letters 9ecaf31205f1e899bb456ec981c4a70647a13e15 656 645 2012-09-26T02:14:45Z Jsaxon 20 Re added image wikitext text/x-wiki This is a test page by '''John Saxon''' during the PCUG WIKI course.'''This should be bold'''. This is a [http://www.jsaxon.org] a link to my home page This is an internal link [[Newsletters]] to the WIKI news letters [[File:routers.jpg]] 8e8c1c1e285a6cf3ecfb61e9c0f2de865c9a9d44 659 656 2012-09-26T02:23:31Z Jsaxon 20 Added text below image wikitext text/x-wiki This is a test page by '''John Saxon''' during the PCUG WIKI course.'''This should be bold'''. This is a [http://www.jsaxon.org] a link to my home page This is an internal link [[Newsletters]] to the WIKI news letters [[File:routers.jpg]] This is text below the image 3224e31a0dc557dfde0252968198467db90d3534 660 659 2012-09-26T02:26:09Z Jsaxon 20 Added some un (WIKI) formatted text wikitext text/x-wiki This is a test page by '''John Saxon''' during the PCUG WIKI course.'''This should be bold'''. This is a [http://www.jsaxon.org] a link to my home page This is an internal link [[Newsletters]] to the WIKI news letters [[File:routers.jpg]] This is text below the image Using a Router with Broadband These procedures are provided for Windows XP only (Patched with SP2). There are many brands and types of broadband routers - so these procedures are generic in nature. Before you Start: You need your TIP User name and password. Think up a name for your wireless network if you are using one, and a minimum 8 character 'pass phrase' to use when securing it. Connecting up: Generally follow the instructions that come with the router. There are two broadband router types - DSL for cable networks, and ADSL for telephone connections. The diagrams below will give you a rough idea. Always start the setup using a wired connection. When the cables are connected Windows should report 'local area connection - Speed 100 Mbps - connected' (or 10 Mbps if connecting to a Set top box), when the router is powered up. Note: Ethernet cables can be connected and disconnected when the power is on. Setting up the Internet connection: It's a good idea (but not vital) to start with a working Broadband connection using the computer directly connected to the TransACT set top box or modem. Use the procedures at http://www.tip.net.au/connect/broadband.htm Once you start using the router (which makes the broadband connection) - you do not use the connection made in the computer again - but it can be left in Control Panel>Network Connections just in case of problems. Remember that the router makes the connection which will remain connected as long as the router is powered on. Almost all reasonably modern broadband routers are easy to set up using the inbuilt connection wizard or installation CD. Just follow the instructions in the quick start instructions. Normally the only items needed are that you need to set up a PPPoE connection and User name (full Email Address), TIP password. The router defaults can be used for all other items including the router logon User name and password. Once the wizard is complete - the router should connect and all computers connected to the router should have Internet access. Setting up the Wireless connection: This is usually part of the initial connection wizard. Again just follow the requests. First for the SSID name. Call it anything you like such as 'fredsnet', 'jillnet' or whatever. Select WPA-PSK security (most reasonably new Laptops support this). Then input your chosen pass phrase which usually needs to be 8 characters or more. There may be an option to turn off the wireless which should be selected if you are not going to use it. Setting up the Wireless computer: These instructions assume that the computer has been updated with XP service pack 2. Go to Start>Control Panel>Wireless network Wizard. Input the SSID and the pass phrase, select WPA security, and to set up the connection manually and 'finish'. It should connect to to the router, and if the router is connected to the Internet - then Web sites and Email should work O.K. http://www.wi-fiplanet.com/tutorials/article.php/3552826 has got some good information on setting up a WPA-PSK connection. Trouble shooting: Hopefully will not be needed, but.... 1. It is not possible to do much trouble shooting if you can't view the web pages stored in the router. Connect by typing the router address into your browser (Internet Explorer etc.). E.G. In the Address box type 192.168.0.1 (or whatever address is noted in the router's setup procedures). You should see the router's web pages in the browser after logging on using the router's user name and password. 2. If the router's user name/password box does not appear in your browser, check the Ethernet connection between the computer and the router - there should be a green light on one of the Router's LAN lights, and possibly another at the computer end. Also check the XP LAN properties by Start>Control panel>Network Connections>Right Click the LAN connection and left click on properties. Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) then click the Properties button. Ensure that both 'obtain an IP address automatically' and 'obtain DNS server address automatically' are selected. 3. If you don't know the IP address to enter into your browser - you can try to find it by going to Start>Run>Enter cmd. A DOS box should appear and you can then type 'ipconfig' and press enter (no quotes). The IP address for the router should be indicated as the 'Default Gateway'. If all else fails you may find your router at http://www.speedguide.net/broadband.php which gives IP addresses, user names and passwords for loads of units. 4. If the router does not appear to be connected to the internet - check it's Status page. This should indicate if it is connected or not. Sometimes problems can be fixed by selecting 'disconnect' followed by 'connect'. N.B. The WAN light on the router only indicates a physical connection to TransACT NOT a full PPPoE data connection. 5. If you can't make a Wireless connection to the router - make absolutely sure that the router and the wireless computer are using the same SSID, Security protocol, and pass phrase. It is possible to make a wireless connection but have the connection flagged as 'limited or no connectivity'. If web pages or Email can't be used on the wireless computer - check the connection properties to ensure that a fixed IP address is not enabled. 6. It is not intended to detail file sharing, drive mapping and other local area network procedures here. However - don't forget the golden rules - all computers must be on the same work group and no two computers can have the same name. Check or change both by right clicking on 'My Computer' and left click on Properties, then select the 'computer name' tab. Once you can 'see' the other computer/s in your network using Windows Explorer or 'Network neighbourhood' - then each drive or folder must be right clicked and 'shared'. There are lots of tutorials on line. E.G. http://tinyurl.com/ymydsn If all else fails - call me on 6161-1524 (before 7pm please). Many thanks to Ian Leister for lots of info and getting me going on this. John Saxon - 2 Sep 2007 7c387a248cfd152111f0878d5293a65aed98b953 2 136 649 2012-09-26T01:52:30Z Aglenn 24 First edit. wikitext text/x-wiki == Anthony Glenn == Hi. PCUG user Aglenn is '''Anthony Glenn'''. I have been a member of the PCUG since 1984 - the early days. I bought my first computer (an IBM XT clone), but I have built all my subsequent computers using parts sourced from the regular computer fairs held here in Canberra. I have my [http://www.netspeed.com.au/adglenn/ own website]. Hop on to that website to find out my views on various subjects. You can also find out my email address, so you could contact me. 779d85d19a496b8256b6eb90a6f94b39237ce1fc 0 137 652 2012-09-26T02:00:30Z Sfrtest 5 Create with scamwatch link wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government Scamwatch page] 1db8b381687134710e456d89b0faa90769799d4c 663 652 2012-09-26T04:20:20Z Lpb 2 Transfer Scam links form spam page wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] 4a51098a8d81fb58015e5330bb4adb20dc44625f 6 138 654 2012-09-26T02:12:23Z Sfrtest 5 Picture of sculpture by the Monaro Highway near Snowy Mountains Airport taken by Lawrie in Sept 2012. wikitext text/x-wiki Picture of sculpture by the Monaro Highway near Snowy Mountains Airport taken by Lawrie in Sept 2012. b2f3c4e8e6011370e5027bedf2f9b17cfed0894f 6 139 657 2012-09-26T02:17:36Z Jsaxon 20 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 2 140 662 2012-09-26T02:34:20Z Sfrtest 5 Create page wikitext text/x-wiki My name is Susan White and today I am learning to edit Wiki pages. 25f3f6442757451c45ef5a2d86b3682cd1795b01 0 137 666 663 2012-09-26T04:38:45Z Lpb 2 Add category tag wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] [[Category:Technical Info]] c8a332799cb57b1db8528af6d88e2370bb183826 4 30 667 395 2012-09-27T22:48:41Z Lpb 2 /* Contributions to the Wiki */ Add note about new page names wikitext text/x-wiki == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other on a range of topics. These include: * current news and notices * information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation * various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources * and a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. == Using the Wiki == === Contributions to the Wiki === :This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. :To do this, select the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page to login (a wiki account will be created automatically the first time you log in). :You are encouraged to contribute information, especially to the [[Activities_and_Opportunities]] and [[Technical Info]] sections, as this is very much in the spirit of the group's policy of ''Users Helping Users''. :If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see our guide to [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]]. As this notes, any new page name will form part of the URL used to access it, so please keep your new page name brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than dashes, spaces, underscores or periods. Further useful links are provided in navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. :Contributions can range from small additions; to corrections and extensions to current pages; through to creating entirely new pages on relevant topics. For these, either edit an existing page, or add your new page into the relevant location on one of the main navigation pages. :If you wish to make other than minor, editorial, changes to key navigation pages, such as the [[Main Page]] or various pages immediately below it, please create a draft of your proposed changes on a new page, and then ask for this to be reviewed by the [mailto:website@pcug.org.au website committee]. Please note that we do not wish to discourage such proposals, but because they can significantly affect the usability of the site for all, and because we have spent some time creating the current structure, we do wish to encourage discussion and trial of such changes first. === Viewing Wiki === :You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information, browse the site using the links below, or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. :Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. == Overview of Information Management for PCUG & TIP == === PCUG General Info === :Authoritative information on the PCUG, its aims, activities, benefits, and publicity material, may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website] (''see PCUG Home link in navigation bar''). === TIP (The Internet Project) Info === :'''Information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]''' === PCUG Info Wiki (''this wiki'') Members Informing Members === :This wiki focuses on topics, with collaborative input from members for members!! [[Category:General]] b5658739f297b1a6df725ad5428b694593eb217c 0 36 668 288 2012-09-27T22:58:41Z Lpb 2 Add note about not navigating away from wiki editor page, not using IE, acceptable punctuation in page name wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. Please note that some problems have been reported by people using ''Internet Explorer'', so we suggest using another modern browser, such as ''Chrome'', ''Firefox'', ''Safari'' or similar. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than dashes, spaces, underscores or periods. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. Please note that you '''must not navigate away''' from this page whilst you are making and previewing changes to the page content, or all your changes will be lost. You need to select '''Save page''' to ensure changes are kept permanently. If you do need to view other pages, or follow links whilst editing, please ensure these open in a new tab or new window. You format the page content using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Edit_toolbar toolbar] buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, preferably not Word), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no <nowiki>''markup''</nowiki>&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki>||[[File:jumpgate.gif|left|frame|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]]</nowiki><br>(option 60px means resize width to 60 pixels)||[[File:jumpgate.gif|right|60px|B5 Jumpgate!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For additional guidance on using our wikis, see our [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis|More on Working with Wikis]] guide. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 9e3a9deadc4a7724a8b6696209d798d8f9639c44 669 668 2012-09-27T23:09:34Z Lpb 2 Change image used in example to "Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg" wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. Please note that some problems have been reported by people using ''Internet Explorer'', so we suggest using another modern browser, such as ''Chrome'', ''Firefox'', ''Safari'' or similar. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than dashes, spaces, underscores or periods. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. Please note that you '''must not navigate away''' from this page whilst you are making and previewing changes to the page content, or all your changes will be lost. You need to select '''Save page''' to ensure changes are kept permanently. If you do need to view other pages, or follow links whilst editing, please ensure these open in a new tab or new window. You format the page content using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Edit_toolbar toolbar] buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, preferably not Word), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no <nowiki>''markup''</nowiki>&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image<br>(See section on [[#Adding Images|Adding Images]] later)||<nowiki>[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|left|frame|Globe Sculpture!]]</nowiki><br>(with options ''left'' aligned, ''frame'', and final caption)||[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|left|frame|Globe Sculpture!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|right|50px|Globe Sculpture!]]</nowiki><br>(with options: ''right'' aligned, ''50px'' to resize width to 50 pixels)||[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|right|60px|Globe Sculpture!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For additional guidance on using our wikis, see our [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis|More on Working with Wikis]] guide. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] f36b41a909ef15f59fc00a75bd086b9b1f63234a 670 669 2012-09-27T23:13:03Z Lpb 2 /* Adding Content with some Basic Markup */ add links to section on [[#Adding Images|Adding Images]] wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. Please note that some problems have been reported by people using ''Internet Explorer'', so we suggest using another modern browser, such as ''Chrome'', ''Firefox'', ''Safari'' or similar. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than dashes, spaces, underscores or periods. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. Please note that you '''must not navigate away''' from this page whilst you are making and previewing changes to the page content, or all your changes will be lost. You need to select '''Save page''' to ensure changes are kept permanently. If you do need to view other pages, or follow links whilst editing, please ensure these open in a new tab or new window. You format the page content using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Edit_toolbar toolbar] buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, preferably not Word), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section on [[#Adding Images|Adding Images]]). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section on [[#Adding Images|Adding Images]]). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. There is quite a bit more that may also be used, but we recommend you become familiar with this basic markup first. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no <nowiki>''markup''</nowiki>&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image<br>(See section on [[#Adding Images|Adding Images]] below)||<nowiki>[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|left|frame|Globe Sculpture!]]</nowiki><br>(with options ''left'' aligned, ''frame'', and final caption)||[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|left|frame|Globe Sculpture!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|right|50px|Globe Sculpture!]]</nowiki><br>(with options: ''right'' aligned, ''50px'' to resize width to 50 pixels)||[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|right|60px|Globe Sculpture!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For additional guidance on using our wikis, see our [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis|More on Working with Wikis]] guide. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] 0de5b4b681d7b2a85a23b500d312601ec889dc92 0 112 671 599 2012-09-29T00:52:42Z Offcmngr 6 /* Wiki Editing */ updating TBA info post last session wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Members from either PCUG or U3A may apply, or new enquiries welcome to join'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] b80bdce4a06a2a843b43e81c2cb0b20a8547efec 672 671 2012-09-29T00:56:56Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ Fee information updated wikitext text/x-wiki General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d664c300722a8634f79886155079c98644b31fe2 673 672 2012-09-29T01:00:19Z Offcmngr 6 Introduction & contents of same wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 02b90d994d806919d61d7ea905d4d53ce26a9846 674 673 2012-09-29T01:01:18Z Offcmngr 6 spacing formatting wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Wiki Editing == * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). == Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) == *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ba709ea0eb91e6267cf179db32921084d75535ff 688 674 2012-10-16T23:48:34Z Offcmngr 6 Restructuring Training headings wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] bea1b26298c05c4504477bae8d5c1cb51d4711fb 689 688 2012-10-16T23:56:38Z Offcmngr 6 Excel content update wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === '''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. '''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> '''Training Assistant:''' Dez Wildwood<br> '''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. '''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) '''Places:''' up to 10. '''Applications:''' Email training@pcug.org.au or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f2f94a5c2e3a61811592cfd0f3aa294e8126562f 690 689 2012-10-16T23:59:26Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === '''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. '''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> '''Training Assistant:''' Dez Wildwood<br> '''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. '''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) '''Places:''' up to 10. '''Applications:''' Email training@pcug.org.au or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 068e133b487ecf6e349c2b2065733f29a8a5e690 691 690 2012-10-17T00:02:21Z Offcmngr 6 Excel formatting of * wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' Dez Wildwood<br> *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 10. *'''Applications:''' Email training@pcug.org.au or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 1d06d8251dab00adafbed327f4e8dca9de676fe6 692 691 2012-10-17T00:04:31Z Offcmngr 6 /* Placing Bookings and Enquiries */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 22922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' Dez Wildwood<br> *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 10. *'''Applications:''' Email training@pcug.org.au or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] aeaa2b42d5c55c6870eb6eb656da35a83f50bcd6 693 692 2012-10-17T00:05:02Z Offcmngr 6 /* Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 22922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' Dez Wildwood<br> *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 10. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 9815bd5a851267f1fbce949a93a9f06be5c54c36 694 693 2012-10-17T00:05:44Z Offcmngr 6 Excel formatting correction wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 22922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' Dez Wildwood<br> *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 10. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 9674e0c80c56e1f6ba8e41874d466c801216dec8 707 694 2012-10-26T02:03:44Z Offcmngr 6 /* Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel */ placed capped wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 22922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel '''''FULL'''''=== *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 77a1fd733bf33c1d3a1ec424d73d7ee55f2686cb 0 6 675 537 2012-10-02T01:57:13Z Lpb 2 /* ASCCA */ Add Oct12 link wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 37390f6010408b9c0f51613514c827434d62123a 703 675 2012-10-22T03:07:54Z Lpb 2 /* APCUG */ Add link to NOOZ_Oct12.pdf wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 9b8717eb6f7e13775828b69ccc1e397f6b00901d 6 141 676 2012-10-15T06:43:13Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 142 677 2012-10-15T06:43:31Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 143 678 2012-10-15T06:43:42Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 144 679 2012-10-15T06:43:55Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 145 680 2012-10-15T06:44:08Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 146 681 2012-10-15T06:44:33Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 147 682 2012-10-15T06:44:45Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 148 683 2012-10-15T06:45:06Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 149 684 2012-10-15T06:45:18Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 150 685 2012-10-15T06:45:34Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 7 686 651 2012-10-15T21:50:15Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 4327ce2cf511b4024a900262afb9abba8063b99a 698 686 2012-10-21T21:38:01Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ added category KDE 4 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 4fcdf9402989af9637fbc5b2444bc33a1bb63d91 701 698 2012-10-21T22:38:59Z Rpeters 14 /* Scanners */ added section for scanning via network wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 633af7c5cab57e380dba426d50520057b51540f2 704 701 2012-10-25T22:31:16Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[File history]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 63451e61b3b306e6f65393311f0a9f0a3a497500 708 704 2012-10-26T06:25:22Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] d0117af786c569cd2101b7dc0947dbdc127d1a10 712 708 2012-10-31T00:39:52Z Pblair 10 /* Email */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] acb2e421ab7255fbac16169419c453d72356a1c2 0 151 687 2012-10-15T21:51:20Z Pblair 10 Created page with "From the time of Windows 95, users have had a menu of advanced boot options available to them by tapping the F8 key during the boot sequence. One of the values of this was to all…" wikitext text/x-wiki From the time of Windows 95, users have had a menu of advanced boot options available to them by tapping the F8 key during the boot sequence. One of the values of this was to allow examination (and possible repair) of startup problems. What follows is in 2 parts: the first examines the 'long' option, whereby you see where Windows 8 has all its maintenance offerings on show. The second part is the 'quick and bloody' way to get to what is known as 'Safe Mode' Boot time in Windows 8 has been reduced considerably, so the time (and the chance) of having your tap on F8 recognized is much less - and anyway, tablets don't have keys during startup. [[File:W8_SS_1.png|right|thumb|300px|Image1]] The reasons for using F8 were twofold. Case A was when you had startup problems and wanted to start your computer in one of the Safe Modes, usually to sort out some problem or other. The other time, Case B, was when you wanted to alter the startup parameters to do something different - eg, boot from a different device. Just as each new version of Windows brought a greater number of options in response to the use of F8, so Windows 8 has evolved even further. If there is a startup problem, Windows 8 will try some internal changes to your setup and try again. If that doesn't work, you will be taken to a forensic page where you can make some choices. [[File:W8_SS_2.png|left|thumb|300px|Image2]] [[File:W8_SS_3.png|right|thumb|300px|Image3]] <br/> The second scenario now uses a different approach, and provides just about everything you could want. The process is somewhat different, however, and you firstly boot into Windows normally, and choose your options from there. <br/> <br/> <br/> Begin from the Start screen. Go to the right of screen and select the Settings charm (the gear wheel icon) as shown in Image2 <br/> <br/> Then click on Change PC settings as shown in Image3 [[File:W8_SS_4.png|right|thumb|300px|Image4]] <br/> <br/> <br/> On the next screen, select General and, to the right, click on Restart now. (This screenshot has been fudged slightly for clarity...) <br/> <br/> [[File:W8_SS_5.png|left|thumb|300px|Image5]] <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> After shutdown/restart, this screen will appear. Click on Troubleshoot.[[File:W8_SS_6.png|right|thumb|300px|Image6]] <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> Click on Advanced options <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> [[File:W8_SS_7.png|left|thumb|300px|Image7]] <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> This is the real engine room of this process. From here you have the opportunity to tackle just about any problem. But, for now, click on Startup Settings (remember: we not yet in Safe Mode! - there's one reboot yet to go.)[[File:W8_SS_8.png|right|thumb|300px|Image8]] <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> Image8 is a bit of a waste of space, but it does tell you what to expect. Go ahead and restart. <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> [[File:W8_SS_9.png|left|thumb|300px|Image9]]The logical choices are F4, F5 and F6. If you press one of them, you will do another reboot, and finish up in Safe Mode. When you have finished there, simply reboot and you will (or should) return to a normal boot. This seems very tedious – 6 screens, 2 reboots. <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> There is a more direct way, if you are inclined to save time. From the Windows screen, hold down the Windows key and tap ‘R’. This will open the Run dialog box. In the Open box, type ‘msconfig’, then click OK. This will open the System Configuration dialog. Under Boot options, put a tick against Safe boot, and click the button next to Minimal. Click Apply, then OK. Restart your computer. Now you will boot into Safe Mode, and do whatever you want. When you have finished, reverse the process and untick the Safe Mode choice, else you will continue to boot into Safe Mode. [[Category:Technical Info]] 02512cc61a6b74487138382ebde82eea58037e3f 0 4 695 584 2012-10-17T00:49:30Z Offcmngr 6 TRAINING COURSE: updating info to current courses - excel wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == TRAINING COURSE: Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel == '''''Item Date 17 October, 2012'''''<br/> * '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 10. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item Date 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be announced at this time. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (topic TBA) === Presentation Topic === *Options for Presentation topic are currently under consideration. *Suggestions or volunteer(s) are welcome to the PCUG Office Manager ===Volunteer of the Year for 2012=== *The Volunteer of the Year for 2012 will be decided at the Committee meeting on 17 September, 2012 for announcement at the AGM *Nominations for this award are welcome to the PCUG Committee or Office Manager before this day, with a brief statement of reasoning for this nomination. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 0ed802c9bb14748a769a025ba7493507a7d4ce6c 696 695 2012-10-17T00:55:29Z Offcmngr 6 /* PCUG Annual General Meeting */ details update wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == TRAINING COURSE: Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel == '''''Item Date 17 October, 2012'''''<br/> * '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 10. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] eefe33b686a02dd9996a17c431bc80bf6acb2429 715 696 2012-11-02T02:02:10Z Offcmngr 6 Excel - course full update wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == TRAINING COURSE: Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel == '''''Item Date 17 October, 2012'''''<br/> * '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 6. COURSE NOW FULL, but expressions of interest are being accepted for scheduling of a new group with date TBA. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d6c8ab20f1eb278f28562e0216336b8639dd1175 0 88 697 635 2012-10-21T21:35:48Z Rpeters 14 amended TIP mirror info & added qtdesktop wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] d4d3364803bf3fd46296cbf411a4838e2ef11330 0 152 699 2012-10-21T21:46:46Z Rpeters 14 outline of migrating PIM data wikitext text/x-wiki KDE 4 is a substantial re-work of KDE. An overview is provided with most Distributions and at: http://www.kde.org An aspect causing much difficulty is migrating data to the new Personal Information Manager - Kontact #essential to '''copy''' each users PIM data, as described in KMail manual, FAQ # 6.11 #*using the commands cp - a or rsync -av Those migrating from KDE 3 to KDE 4 need to pick a "quiet time" because many other apps have been replaced or substantially changed a5e4f88a1ba43f2e2675e83ad6fb6a726cf6f60d 0 118 700 583 2012-10-21T22:34:31Z Rpeters 14 added section re transition phase wikitext text/x-wiki == Support == #booting and utilising GPT-partitioned disks is supported by the kernel (from late 2.6 kernels) & core utilities #*many distributions, particularly smalller ones, do not implement this support by default #**a pointer to lack of support is that the live-CD boots & runs normally, but the installer finds no suitable HDD == Pre-Requisites == === Bootloader === either #GPT-aware bootloader #*patched GRUB >= 0.97 #*GRUB 2 #*elilo #second boot device #*CD/DVD #*USB #*MBR HDD === Kernel & Utilities === #the bootloader, wherever located, must then boot an operating system, that is GPT-aware == Transition Phase == GPT is part of the emerging UEFI environment for computers. Various combinations of pre-UEFI & UEFI equipment will cause complications during the transition phase. For more detail and solutions to some combinations see http://www.rodsbooks.com http://www.ibm.com/developerworks/linux/library/l-gpt/index.html As a general rule, the following combinations can be booted directly: #BIOS mainboard firmware (or UEFI firmware behaving as a BIOS) plus GPT partitioned HDD #*HDD requires (first) partition '''pre-configured''' as type ef02 '''and''' #*"apparent partition 1" '''pre-configured''' with boot flag, using fdisk or cfdisk #**'''non-GPT''' tools must be used to set this flag #UEFI mainboard firmware plus GPT partitioned HDD #*Linux installer should set this up automatically by #**creating partition 1 as type ef00 and formatting as FAT32 #**installing UEFI & GPT aware bootloader [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]09:34, 22 October 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] b179c3019b915a7326402a8c6360eb39b0f98aa7 0 153 702 2012-10-21T23:07:35Z Rpeters 14 covered USB-attached & LAN/WLAN attached devices wikitext text/x-wiki As of 2012 hardware pricing #multi-function printers are priced similarly to print-only devices #the cost premium for a multi-function printer having wired or wireless networking is minor. #scanning over a LAN has some merit because separate scanners occupy significant "footprint" == Linux == === USB-attached Scanners & Multi-function Printers === Many Linux permit sharing over the LAN of a scanner that is attached to one computer via USB cable *check "scanner settings" and activate "sharing" if required === LAN/WLAN-attached Multi-funcion Printers === Functionality and procedures vary by brand. ==== Brother ==== most Brother multi-functions have suitable drivers. Follow the procedures at: http://welcome.solutions.brother.com/bsc/public_s/id/linux/en/index.html ==== Epson ==== some models are supported - see: http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]10:07, 22 October 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 5503f5ff2b7d23e5de89326938bc785dd0f6de3f 0 154 705 2012-10-25T22:33:09Z Pblair 10 Created page with "File History is a new feature in Windows 8. It replaces the Backup and Restore feature of Windows 7. There is an excellent explanation at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/201…" wikitext text/x-wiki File History is a new feature in Windows 8. It replaces the Backup and Restore feature of Windows 7. There is an excellent explanation at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/10/protecting-user-files-with-file-history.aspx 7b97c07618a8a10ef9869650649ff509f388d28d 706 705 2012-10-25T22:33:45Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki File History is a new feature in Windows 8. It replaces the Backup and Restore feature of Windows 7. There is an excellent explanation at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/10/protecting-user-files-with-file-history.aspx [[Category:Technical Info]] 88145e4a12bb0035ba519a49184d0224f6e0e566 0 155 709 2012-10-26T06:26:01Z Pblair 10 Created page with "It would be an understatement to comment on the expansion of hard drive capacities over recent years. And we have had various combinations - JBOD arrays, RAID and NAS systems - t…" wikitext text/x-wiki It would be an understatement to comment on the expansion of hard drive capacities over recent years. And we have had various combinations - JBOD arrays, RAID and NAS systems - to allow us to organize things efficiently. Windows 8 introduces another variant - Storage Spaces. There is a useful article at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/05/virtualizing-storage-for-scale-resiliency-and-efficiency.aspx 8e9fc5e955557cb843b13e1e829f4a773ed71a59 710 709 2012-10-26T06:26:27Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki It would be an understatement to comment on the expansion of hard drive capacities over recent years. And we have had various combinations - JBOD arrays, RAID and NAS systems - to allow us to organize things efficiently. Windows 8 introduces another variant - Storage Spaces. There is a useful article at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/05/virtualizing-storage-for-scale-resiliency-and-efficiency.aspx [[Category:Technical Info]] bf652c0013b29b05adadf83774ab4fa5019d7e00 0 99 711 481 2012-10-30T23:29:57Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Such printers are now old and only woth pursuing for special features, such as: *capability for larger than A4 paper *stock of consumables available == Connection == Few contemporary computers have a parallel port. Possible options #some may have a neader on the mainboard, to which a parallel port sccket, having "flying" cable, from '90s vintage computer may be plugged #USB-LPT adapter #printer server Printer cables conforming to iEEE 1284 use twisted-pairs, for higher data transfer rates *these will make a difference only for ECP or EPP capable printers == Settings == Settings in the computer's BIOS or device menu '''and''' the printer should be set to the highest capability that '''both''' can handle. The following capablilities are listed in '''increasing''' order: *Stnadard Parallel Port (SPP) - for pre-1994 printers *bi-directional - typically in mid-90s printers *EPP *ECP USB-LPT devices may not be configurable and tend to support higher modes only *these may not work at all with SPP or bi-directional printers == Linux == Linux distributions from about 2011 do not '''activate''' modules required for parallel port printers, by default. #In 3.x kernels the modules required are named #*ppdev ('parport' in 2.6.x kernels) #*lp : --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]09:16, 31 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 35b41db7d368fdf1206754aac2a6892fe9c249cc 0 156 713 2012-10-31T00:41:41Z Pblair 10 Created page with "Long URLs in the body of emails have a habit of breaking, making them difficult to click and follow. To prevent this, place a ">" and a space before the start of the URL and a s…" wikitext text/x-wiki Long URLs in the body of emails have a habit of breaking, making them difficult to click and follow. To prevent this, place a ">" and a space before the start of the URL and a space and a "<" at the end of the URL. 9ded66fd574e000e32c78c196410cf7bf74b8038 714 713 2012-10-31T00:42:18Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Long URLs in the body of emails have a habit of breaking, making them difficult to click and follow. To prevent this, place a ">" and a space before the start of the URL and a space and a "<" at the end of the URL. [[Category:Technical Info]] 000c7e09ccc0fadcf0aa8975dc4daae1efa1421b 0 4 716 715 2012-11-02T02:07:29Z Offcmngr 6 AGM 2012 Minutes now available wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes | Committee Minutes Index]] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == TRAINING COURSE: Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel == '''''Item Date 17 October, 2012'''''<br/> * '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 6. COURSE NOW FULL, but expressions of interest are being accepted for scheduling of a new group with date TBA. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 4cdbace6a09594e759e89862e8930db24cd4eae5 717 716 2012-11-02T02:25:57Z Offcmngr 6 Xmas party notice wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes | Committee Minutes Index]] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == TRAINING COURSE: Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel == '''''Item Date 17 October, 2012'''''<br/> * '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 6. COURSE NOW FULL, but expressions of interest are being accepted for scheduling of a new group with date TBA. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 4c75cd549f99813db8e6a1453d363996e2dd56dc 718 717 2012-11-02T03:44:39Z Offcmngr 6 Xmas closure notice wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> General Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information] We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == TRAINING COURSE: Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel == '''''Item Date 17 October, 2012'''''<br/> * '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 6. COURSE NOW FULL, but expressions of interest are being accepted for scheduling of a new group with date TBA. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d6f010d5410b654c15881d107af2a14412fc652f 726 718 2012-11-15T03:05:18Z Offcmngr 6 training in 2013 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> Other information is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> An overview of Training Information is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date 15 November, 2012'''''<br> * Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]] page for Excel, Access and ABC. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == TRAINING COURSE: Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel == '''''Item Date 17 October, 2012'''''<br/> * '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 6. COURSE NOW FULL, but expressions of interest are being accepted for scheduling of a new group with date TBA. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d0cdb988f06fc8637967014ddea53853b60f85cf 0 112 719 707 2012-11-14T05:49:55Z Offcmngr 6 fone no correction wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel '''''FULL'''''=== *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 68878149a28a4f6e486b107987d645518a6beed2 720 719 2012-11-14T05:52:34Z Offcmngr 6 move excel VBA course to 'other' wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 1b86084655d167fa5cde431e8adfd91649e34444 721 720 2012-11-14T05:53:38Z Offcmngr 6 /* Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] a7495c9a56ccb0496f0fdb0088561e6343ed8b90 722 721 2012-11-14T05:55:52Z Offcmngr 6 excel formatting update wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses == === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 526578f5a801ae147c56c5ccd961bb434f50e089 723 722 2012-11-14T06:20:48Z Offcmngr 6 Courses Feb 2013 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 (Peter Barker)=== *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 10am-12.30pm * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 6366dfe88eeae5444a283071e023bd02b2726019 724 723 2012-11-14T06:24:07Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 (Peter Barker) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 (Peter Barker)=== *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 10am-12.30pm * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': ''The current course commencing Tue 11 Sept, 2012 to 20 November 2012 is full''. <br/>'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 631ce78d2998f6611306043c2cea6370972250a4 725 724 2012-11-14T06:25:47Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 (Peter Barker)=== *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 10am-12.30pm * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] cc50208e0818cf3e008635d63d110de0b0d800b9 727 725 2012-11-15T03:33:58Z Offcmngr 6 databases time correction wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 350943b07f58efa9cfb25a5221c6b0474d6affb1 728 727 2012-11-19T02:11:58Z Quanro 13 /* Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * No previous knowledge of Excel required. * Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful bu not essential. * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 7ff8408396a59b022e0e227124540d30a71b65bb 729 728 2012-11-19T02:12:20Z Quanro 13 /* Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * No previous knowledge of Excel required. * Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d8449ee46294691d1fc5bb207bed87143fafe090 730 729 2012-11-19T02:14:28Z Quanro 13 /* Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * No previous knowledge of Excel required. * Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. * Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 2c3feb42ca738fec9338bf4bac507c7bb771a3f1 731 730 2012-11-19T02:17:10Z Quanro 13 /* Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * No previous knowledge of Excel required. * Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. * Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-win7-2012-02.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 3cbbd2aee71398a73fc22a2fb72f8c0e99588f89 740 731 2012-11-30T04:53:44Z Offcmngr 6 updating abc flyer link wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Cost: $50 for PCUG members, $70 for non-members. === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * No previous knowledge of Excel required. * Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. * Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ececa28640060238b72447f33c643b0b75456296 743 740 2012-12-05T02:09:33Z Offcmngr 6 Databases - update details wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * No previous knowledge of Excel required. * Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. * Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 09c0fb0dbb3ce3f199c890604499dc30c24d0490 744 743 2012-12-05T02:13:06Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * No previous knowledge of Excel required. * Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. * Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''Training Assistant:''' TBA<br> *'''When:''' TBA The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between (last scheduled) 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday * '''Where:'''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 until determined whether assistant to the trainer is available. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 15e842c760d9da166ae0f02a6342ef720a49218c 745 744 2012-12-05T02:30:57Z Offcmngr 6 Excel VBA course dates wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== * runs over 6 sessions, with break in the middle for trainer being unavailable and Easter * Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 * Places: capped at 6 * No previous knowledge of Excel required. * Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. * Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! * Cost: $60 for PCUG members, $80 for non-members. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d56f0de662b749f21643c9e8d999862191d5bd50 746 745 2012-12-05T02:52:48Z Offcmngr 6 Excel RQ (tidying up formatting & details) wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' runs over 6 sessions, with break (that includes Easter) ** Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 ** Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken for the next course scheduled February, 2013''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 206551308a4e430553ca9d5c9e8b1ec9d7c5fb21 747 746 2012-12-05T03:15:43Z Offcmngr 6 ABC formatting & dates tidying up wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' runs over 6 sessions, with break (that includes Easter) ** Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 ** Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 6 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 23cc28c4643acd4cdb3e58ad3980f892d0ecebab 0 110 732 506 2012-11-19T02:19:32Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export a range of documents as well *PDF *DOC & dotDOCX documents *XLS *PPT. Comprhensive editing help is available via the HELP menu within openoffice. [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:34, 31 August 2012 (EST) - * 577db2128e19891d99f05f289fc50ea90657368c 0 7 733 712 2012-11-19T02:21:52Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e1320589d9220baee29648adade3ae69f26a8444 749 733 2012-12-05T10:08:26Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 65803ced2c939ce0dbb79a08eb6b6b087b180a83 754 749 2012-12-15T02:15:03Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 1649572d60dc6b6bb0e5aa1f135a8c317816cdce 0 157 734 2012-11-19T04:25:04Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "The new technologies being introduced with PC & disk drives manufactured in 2011 and later include the core technology of UEFI firmware and its related technologies: *AF disk dri…" wikitext text/x-wiki The new technologies being introduced with PC & disk drives manufactured in 2011 and later include the core technology of UEFI firmware and its related technologies: *AF disk drives *GPT disk partitioning *EFI boot routine *Secure Boot (within the UEFI firmware) More detailed guidelines, help and recommendations are available from: http://rodsbooks.com Many mainboards that were manufactured by Intel from 2006 include (U)EFI, but are likely to require upgrading to the latest available firmware release, in order to work reliably with the first three technologies above. Intel provide an ISO image of a bootable CD, which allows the upgrade to be done without Windows. == EFI Boot == The EFI bootloader within UEFI is capable of booting a kernel image directly, provided that the image has an extension of .efi. Getting this working, directly, requires being able to add to the boot entries in the mainboard's setup and this feature is not implemented on all mainboards. After entering the mainboard's setup, folllow the trail: Boot tab -> Boot Priority -> Add entry Workarounds include: #many current Linux installer routines will place an entry for a bootloader (eg grub.efi, although it is likely to be named after the distro) in the mainboard's boot priority list #the rEFInd boot manager from the above site will place an entry for itself in the mainboard's list. #*rEFInd is more flexible, being able to select various boot devices: #** a bootloader such as grub.efi #** a CD or USB boot device or #** a kernel file having .efi extension #*rEFInd also presents an attractive boot menu, having icon-interface EFI boot looks for FAT32 partitions having type code ef00 (type ESP). Contemporary kernel + initrd occupy > 20 MB. An ESP of several hundred MB is advisable if many OS will be installed on the PC or if older kernels are being retained. [Category:Technical Info]] [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:25, 19 November 2012 (EST) c1c5c097bb773f03e623e8845e066dfdb70a9b36 0 6 735 703 2012-11-26T10:18:27Z Lpb 2 /* APCUG */ Add Nov12 NOOZ & WHat Offer links wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer]. == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 80a1d64c0aa95bdb9826c9d7e62753bd945d51fa 736 735 2012-11-26T10:19:49Z Lpb 2 /* APCUG */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer] (received Nov 2012). == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 7c04a6b61a40bce068ae6f2543842a0ce1736cc5 742 736 2012-12-03T23:44:09Z Lpb 2 /* ASCCA */ Add Nov & Dec 12 wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer] (received Nov 2012). == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Nov12.pdf Nov], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Dec12.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 87b303ce06921596060d134b18b50ad678109838 2 95 737 633 2012-11-27T03:44:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic CD **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the specific PC to be booted is a useful starting point for a custom rescue CD #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 381109dc37848b30a3e7d35cf9361c804e34e848 738 737 2012-11-27T04:00:52Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic CD **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 44ab7c0a8d5aebb0935a057fffd74c9601dc48d0 739 738 2012-11-27T04:04:27Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic CD **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 7b9fa425455bc9d8b47238d91d5ff331987230e2 741 739 2012-12-02T21:12:42Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in a sub-directory. #*save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration, at . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 5c56764cc09f56e2b4423bef64dbce36343a6c1b 752 741 2012-12-09T05:25:01Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in a sub-directory. #*save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration, at . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 85ea7aed9c05caa42bd41ab3bfc802a457463e54 753 752 2012-12-09T05:28:12Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in a sub-directory. #*save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration, at . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4205820f96317ee078ace09ec24532495af11933 758 753 2012-12-16T21:53:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in a sub-directory. #*save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration, at . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === #this task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== #some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" #*which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices #**because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, as above *hence th "hybrid" descriptor #*but require this alternative procedure to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices the main these may be written to CD/DVD/USB/SD media ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch a program for direct writing images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 0326b25f6aa947536043ffdbd8d93b263b71b148 759 758 2012-12-16T22:29:05Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in a sub-directory. #*save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration, at . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] f965326a5422a5ac792ada07f711fd12a90efa3d 761 759 2012-12-16T22:55:13Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must have been installed to a boot disk : *partitioned using GPT partition table and *having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' == BIOS Mainboards == == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in a sub-directory. #*save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration, at . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] e83f56505ba9a5adf4b859a508edbf33b4f49f06 762 761 2012-12-16T23:19:15Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not strictly speaking case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension == BIOS Mainboards == == Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. == Grub Rescue CD == GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the commnad "info grub" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in a sub-directory. #*save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration, at . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 427902c9019dea65f417bc270c0f72fd09e02ef3 763 762 2012-12-17T02:14:28Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **msny distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is a change in the background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in a sub-directory. #*save the modified file #invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or use a suitable tool to create a bootable USB stick from it #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. **the file Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration, at . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] be394b55518e6388ba92982548a4b136a9dd6f30 764 763 2012-12-17T02:33:50Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **msny distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order == Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. Distribution specific notes; *openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" **default folder becomes /boot/grub2 **commands become eg grub2-mkrescue *openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI **this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default *openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg **any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 5a8608c7a99162aec35f5a80902d461823e44b7a 765 764 2012-12-17T02:37:02Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **msny distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable rescue CD images do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: **Parted Magic **Supergrub **Systemrescue *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] ed24ca42e11430179256fb00f305b204b3bc35e9 14 158 748 2012-12-05T03:16:25Z Offcmngr 6 page creation wikitext text/x-wiki Category: Training 2d2694b74795acb298a2c1f3c1d00c972d3799af 0 159 750 2012-12-05T10:10:00Z Pblair 10 Created page with "This is a workaround to enable links to recently used items in Windows 8. Pin this to the desktop or taskbar: C:\Users\[your name]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent Item…" wikitext text/x-wiki This is a workaround to enable links to recently used items in Windows 8. Pin this to the desktop or taskbar: C:\Users\[your name]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent Items 2d29051bdee6269e1098cc6401d27bcbc908c93f 751 750 2012-12-05T10:11:37Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a workaround to enable links to recently used items in Windows 8. Pin this to the desktop or taskbar: C:\Users\[your name]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Recent Items [[Category:Technical Info]] b556d7e22aa952d64e5234ab0c85f434af237d35 0 160 755 2012-12-15T02:17:34Z Pblair 10 Created page with "After 20 years on our Windows screens, the Start button (the "orb") has been removed in Windows 8. Microsoft has given various reasons for this action, and, to supports the de…" wikitext text/x-wiki After 20 years on our Windows screens, the Start button (the "orb") has been removed in Windows 8. Microsoft has given various reasons for this action, and, to supports the decision, has reportedly stripped unwanted code from Windows 8 to prevent re-activation. Despite that, and even before Windows 8 was released, some free and a paid-for utility that create the Start button of old have been released. '''CLASSIC SHELL''' Class Shell (http://classicshell.sourceforge.net/index.html) is free (donations welcome) software that is highly customisable. The Start button can show menus in the style of Windows 98 (sort of), XP, Vista and 7. In fact, it is perhaps so customisable as to be a bit confusing. If you install this, look through all the options it presents, and choose the things that best suit your way of working. In Windows 8, the Windows key normally switches between the tiled tablet screen and the 'normal' Windows desktop. Classic Shell reconfigures this key, and pressing it brings up the Start menu. There are a few other installs included in the Classic Shell setup. Read all screens carefully as you install Classic Shell so you don't finish up with unwanted items. '''START8''' This item (http://www.stardock.com/products/start8) is paid for - US$5, but you can try it free for 30 days. It is very much like Classic Shell, but seems a bit easier to configure. And it has the ability to disable the hot corners, a normal but sometimes annoying part of Windows 8. '''POKKI''' Another free item at https://www.pokki.com/windows-8-start-menu Of the 3 reviewed here, Pokki is what Microsoft should have provided in recent models. If you try this, test out what is termed 'pinning'. Pokki's default setting is to boot to the desktop. This can be changed if you want to. 7c729da6d145639e9cbc964278258cc2ed2c0eaf 756 755 2012-12-15T02:18:12Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki After 20 years on our Windows screens, the Start button (the "orb") has been removed in Windows 8. Microsoft has given various reasons for this action, and, to supports the decision, has reportedly stripped unwanted code from Windows 8 to prevent re-activation. Despite that, and even before Windows 8 was released, some free and a paid-for utility that create the Start button of old have been released. '''CLASSIC SHELL''' Class Shell (http://classicshell.sourceforge.net/index.html) is free (donations welcome) software that is highly customisable. The Start button can show menus in the style of Windows 98 (sort of), XP, Vista and 7. In fact, it is perhaps so customisable as to be a bit confusing. If you install this, look through all the options it presents, and choose the things that best suit your way of working. In Windows 8, the Windows key normally switches between the tiled tablet screen and the 'normal' Windows desktop. Classic Shell reconfigures this key, and pressing it brings up the Start menu. There are a few other installs included in the Classic Shell setup. Read all screens carefully as you install Classic Shell so you don't finish up with unwanted items. '''START8''' This item (http://www.stardock.com/products/start8) is paid for - US$5, but you can try it free for 30 days. It is very much like Classic Shell, but seems a bit easier to configure. And it has the ability to disable the hot corners, a normal but sometimes annoying part of Windows 8. '''POKKI''' Another free item at https://www.pokki.com/windows-8-start-menu Of the 3 reviewed here, Pokki is what Microsoft should have provided in recent models. If you try this, test out what is termed 'pinning'. Pokki's default setting is to boot to the desktop. This can be changed if you want to. [[Category:Technical Info]] b5cf09e35ee789febef292bdbcda24720b31a93b 757 756 2012-12-16T00:12:01Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki After 20 years on our Windows screens, the Start button (the "orb") has been removed in Windows 8. Microsoft has given various reasons for this action, and, to support the decision, has reportedly stripped unwanted code from Windows 8 to prevent re-activation. Despite that, and even before Windows 8 was released, some free and a paid-for utility that create the Start button of old have been released. '''CLASSIC SHELL''' Class Shell (http://classicshell.sourceforge.net/index.html) is free (donations welcome) software that is highly customisable. The Start button can show menus in the style of Windows 98 (sort of), XP, Vista and 7. In fact, it is perhaps so customisable as to be a bit confusing. If you install this, look through all the options it presents, and choose the things that best suit your way of working. In Windows 8, the Windows key normally switches between the tiled tablet screen and the 'normal' Windows desktop. Classic Shell reconfigures this key, and pressing it brings up the Start menu. There are a few other installs included in the Classic Shell setup. Read all screens carefully as you install Classic Shell so you don't finish up with unwanted items. '''START8''' This item (http://www.stardock.com/products/start8) is paid for - US$5, but you can try it free for 30 days. It is very much like Classic Shell, but seems a bit easier to configure. And it has the ability to disable the hot corners, a normal but sometimes annoying part of Windows 8. '''POKKI''' Another free item at https://www.pokki.com/windows-8-start-menu Of the 3 reviewed here, Pokki is what Microsoft should have provided in recent models. If you try this, test out what is termed 'pinning'. Pokki's default setting is to boot to the desktop. This can be changed if you want to. [[Category:Technical Info]] 3fc8671ffe3349f6ac6b34ce365748b187c84154 0 16 760 602 2012-12-16T22:40:15Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Windows users only #*other users see #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 613a5e9e97d489584e0c3af06a22b32d2d0381a6 2 95 766 765 2012-12-19T03:18:56Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **msny distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #**Supergrub #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c4c549f4f52dfcc9a3518019f9999b6386bcc26f 767 766 2012-12-19T03:41:45Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following do little other than attempt to boot a system on which the bootloader is misbehaving *rEFInd *Supergrub The former can rescue only computers having UEFI firmware on the mainboard, although it is safe to try on BIOS mainboards == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **msny distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 644332982feafb19a3b2d45af40dcd01b8b1971a 769 767 2012-12-19T05:51:35Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system on which the bootloader is misbehaving *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then Supergrub 1.98 can be tried Supergrub 1.98 would be required for older computers Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD [[Using dotISO Files]] The former can rescue only computers having UEFI firmware on the mainboard, although it is safe to try on BIOS mainboards == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **msny distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] bec8eeb1f636f90a86798085ef8d6fb1a66357e6 770 769 2012-12-19T06:10:33Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system on which the bootloader is misbehaving *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then Supergrub 1.98 can be tried Supergrub 1.98 would be required for older computers #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download http://sourceforge.net/projects/supergrub.berlios/files/Super Grub2 Disk/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso/download #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD [[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems #*highlight the required one and press enter #*Subergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter The former can rescue only computers having UEFI firmware on the mainboard, although it is safe to try on BIOS mainboards == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **msny distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] a1917554bbc294366eb371f76f36d716b3e7eef1 771 770 2012-12-19T06:28:03Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 Supergrub 1.98 would be required for older computers #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == The former can rescue only computers having UEFI firmware on the mainboard, although it is safe to try on BIOS mainboards == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in **recent mainstream kernels typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **msny distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 83a01da58e1f9aea64b994d22505b114bbb47009 773 771 2012-12-19T06:43:56Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 Supergrub 1.98 would be required for older computers #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] ddb076d2b50dbcf53836729506de4a52938eccd0 781 773 2012-12-24T21:59:04Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7886eeec920f4d755f1149a3d566970e7d3c7905 782 781 2012-12-24T22:14:51Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 47a8bbc805cfabf188b6e6c7073350300e743242 786 782 2013-01-10T00:17:38Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Printing New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. Selection Guideance *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install Troubleshooting The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) Printer Recommendations *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7c0ed3679098505d1e3911a1825e1d16dae15178 787 786 2013-01-10T00:53:04Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Printing == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 13ffc567a40835f62b05deadf935842ee0737372 800 787 2013-01-20T21:39:39Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 9ab7681a632c32d6ac5ed23efe842f3154ae2318 801 800 2013-01-20T21:43:29Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == == Arduino == --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] fd99fa666bd09eee371a9f1d86d302cec55321e4 803 801 2013-01-20T21:56:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] fbef34a1c2c5a339bb458cf91275b21f5f6bbb39 804 803 2013-01-20T23:23:51Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternatives: **several small dots of hot-melt glue **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components fo the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, to facilitate: **insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **preventing SD card overhanging case *a minimium standofff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored ** The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] d0050af893924103dbb9d2a3e92221d7d1052b1d 805 804 2013-01-20T23:41:29Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternatives: **several small dots of hot-melt glue **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standofff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] be8e55baa879940bcc60d0445b2fb83bafe7abc4 806 805 2013-01-21T00:17:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 746c96485b853cc0141588e6e82d1571b57362f4 807 806 2013-01-21T05:31:19Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. Some relatively simple scripts are used with the Arduino. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] a322225ef1a59d8f69f176cca8bda00ad5fbc887 808 807 2013-01-21T05:36:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c3498d7abec76f88d753ed9d4fd3e388cb13794f 815 808 2013-01-31T22:41:12Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| |+Equipment Issues |- !Device !!Problem !! Tests !! Results !! Prognosis !! Helper --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] d182c86ef17e4aaec6d8c3c7ad0f1c65b80a2bb7 0 7 768 754 2012-12-19T05:35:59Z Rpeters 14 added category for Linux -> Emergency Boot wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 8d6ee502d5a823e5c5c9b3a1d07c56ca10b1ba19 774 768 2012-12-21T08:03:57Z Gjpotts 16 /* Email */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 8808be3651d4c1c305a77f3dde4564fe2ea54a03 783 774 2012-12-26T08:31:46Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] b22eec1fce7c4dd6f62a215719b32cbec13952e6 788 783 2013-01-10T00:56:06Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */added categories for Printing & Scanning wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 89f110797a699cf3ec6990a105662fd3ddccae83 794 788 2013-01-20T02:17:36Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 8e9e1c6d60a3fad2fb9c0e9c34ab434ebe5d76f8 802 794 2013-01-20T21:48:36Z Rpeters 14 /* Hardware */Programmable Controllers/Arduino - added sub-section & categoriy for Arduino. wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 6705c997fb8c2dc7a35234edfb6321505578a3cc 0 161 772 2012-12-19T06:36:07Z Rpeters 14 added elementary procedures for all users to Emergency Boot category wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 1.98 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == 09944e82e0a435c9f6086494b0c0dfc55d06078e 0 162 775 2012-12-21T08:13:51Z Gjpotts 16 info about macros wikitext text/x-wiki Warning from "Stay Smart Online"<br> [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1463887&a=38192&k=5352150 Malicious Macros] 5c1a8da2a1474097da51bd018b84d36da3314175 0 112 776 747 2012-12-21T08:31:29Z Eleanorw 29 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman)=== *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' runs over 6 sessions, with break (that includes Easter) ** Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 ** Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 26 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 824c3912096930e1ebfe8eaefc76e5e2adf2e248 793 776 2013-01-20T01:57:44Z Offcmngr 6 /* Excel for Beginners (Roger Quarterman) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' runs over 6 sessions, with break (that includes Easter) ** Wed 6, 13, 20 Feb 2013 & Wed 10, 17, 24 April 2013 ** Class times 10.00 to 12 noon. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 26 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 7fb3c39146fd3a442530fa80e2fa6914214a520e 812 793 2013-01-26T02:41:41Z Offcmngr 6 /* Excel for Beginners */ date rescheduled wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator], or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners === <span style="color:green; background:yellow">'''This course is being restructured into 2 shorter courses to better meet participant needs. Information to follow.'''</span> *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' To be advised. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 26 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 9007dbe304bd88249ec089a1b26d031ca02a3538 813 812 2013-01-26T02:44:43Z Offcmngr 6 /* Placing Bookings and Enquiries */ Training contact form wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners === <span style="color:green; background:yellow">'''This course is being restructured into 2 shorter courses to better meet participant needs. Information to follow.'''</span> *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' To be advised. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 26 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 45b7cd539dcc15271b1b711d34e2149d6bdefeba 0 154 777 706 2012-12-21T22:34:00Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Windows 8 has extended the options for users who want to insure themselves against loss of their operating system, their files (individually or collectively) or all of the above. File History is a way of taking running backups of files at pre-determined intervals. There is an article about this at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/10/protecting-user-files-with-file-history.aspx This is a rather unusual physical setup - it is difficult to imagine there being any security in having some sort of external device constantly connected to a production computer. If the production computer fails, there is every chance that it could harm any connected devices. The more fullsome method is a direct copy of what was available in Windows 7. The trick is to find where it appears in Windows 8. There are 2 ways of starting your quest. The first is to open Control Panel and look for Windows 7 File Recovery. The second is to go to the tiles screen. Open the Charms menu, click on Search, then Settings. . Type 'file recovery' and look for Windows 7 File Recovery on the screen. Both methods finish up opening the file recovery window. If you used backup in Windows 7, you will recognize the screen. You have 2 options - create a system image, or a system repair disk. The repair disk option is what you will have used previously. Everyone should make one against the possibility that you might find it useful. A system image is a backup of everything on the selected drive to some sort of device - a hard drive, a DVD or any other connection you might have. Just as before, a system image is a complete image - operating system and files. It is total - there's no grabbing individual files in the event of some localised disaster. So, despite being known as File Recovery, that isn't the point at all! To recover using the system image, simply boot from the image. Or, if you want more choices, hold down the Shift key while you reboot your system. [[Category:Technical Info]] 03b16725306202983dc3b3fe07c1eb2e885e7452 779 777 2012-12-21T22:37:54Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Windows 8 has extended the options for users who want to insure themselves against loss of their operating system, their files (individually or collectively) or all of the above. File History is a way of taking running backups of files at pre-determined intervals. There is an article about this at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/10/protecting-user-files-with-file-history.aspx This is a rather unusual physical setup - it is difficult to imagine there being any security in having some sort of external device constantly connected to a production computer. If the production computer fails, there is every chance that it could harm any connected devices. The more fullsome method is a direct copy of what was available in Windows 7. The trick is to find where it appears in Windows 8. There are 2 ways of starting your quest. The first is to open Control Panel and look for Windows 7 File Recovery. The second is to go to the tiles screen. Open the Charms menu, click on Search, then Settings. . Type 'file recovery' and look for Windows 7 File Recovery on the screen. Both methods finish up opening the file recovery window. If you used backup in Windows 7, you will recognize the screen. You have 2 options - create a system image, or a system repair disk. [[File:Bu3a.jpg|300px|thumb|left|Recovery]] The repair disk option is what you will have used previously. Everyone should make one against the possibility that you might find it useful. A system image is a backup of everything on the selected drive to some sort of device - a hard drive, a DVD or any other connection you might have. Just as before, a system image is a complete image - operating system and files. It is total - there's no grabbing individual files in the event of some localised disaster. So, despite being known as File Recovery, that isn't the point at all! To recover using the system image, simply boot from the image. Or, if you want more choices, hold down the Shift key while you reboot your system. [[Category:Technical Info]] 6dae8dc99c1c1540a8c19d8350f41a5f8702b805 780 779 2012-12-21T22:38:32Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Windows 8 has extended the options for users who want to insure themselves against loss of their operating system, their files (individually or collectively) or all of the above. File History is a way of taking running backups of files at pre-determined intervals. There is an article about this at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/10/protecting-user-files-with-file-history.aspx This is a rather unusual physical setup - it is difficult to imagine there being any security in having some sort of external device constantly connected to a production computer. If the production computer fails, there is every chance that it could harm any connected devices. The more fullsome method is a direct copy of what was available in Windows 7. The trick is to find where it appears in Windows 8. There are 2 ways of starting your quest. The first is to open Control Panel and look for Windows 7 File Recovery. The second is to go to the tiles screen. Open the Charms menu, click on Search, then Settings. . Type 'file recovery' and look for Windows 7 File Recovery on the screen. Both methods finish up opening the file recovery window. If you used backup in Windows 7, you will recognize the screen. You have 2 options - create a system image, or a system repair disk. [[File:Bu3a.jpg|500px|thumb|left|Recovery]] The repair disk option is what you will have used previously. Everyone should make one against the possibility that you might find it useful. A system image is a backup of everything on the selected drive to some sort of device - a hard drive, a DVD or any other connection you might have. Just as before, a system image is a complete image - operating system and files. It is total - there's no grabbing individual files in the event of some localised disaster. So, despite being known as File Recovery, that isn't the point at all! To recover using the system image, simply boot from the image. Or, if you want more choices, hold down the Shift key while you reboot your system. [[Category:Technical Info]] 9a143569c7455fe262ec02568a6f365d78eccc93 6 163 778 2012-12-21T22:36:31Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 164 784 2012-12-26T08:33:05Z Pblair 10 Created page with "Windows 8 does not have a way of playing CDs and DVDs. Download a copy of VLC Media Player (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/download-windows.html) and install it." wikitext text/x-wiki Windows 8 does not have a way of playing CDs and DVDs. Download a copy of VLC Media Player (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/download-windows.html) and install it. c55bbd65c9a1e8408cb357225c47cd1e324bf9a3 785 784 2012-12-26T08:33:36Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Windows 8 does not have a way of playing CDs and DVDs. Download a copy of VLC Media Player (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/download-windows.html) and install it. [[Category:Technical Info]] 21663a27a1fee246da8ed7ed0863774aa7748b60 0 165 789 2013-01-10T01:08:25Z Rpeters 14 added preliminary guideance for those new to Linux wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 78ddc8364166c34a987a3ac5782cab4c41a3a7aa 0 166 790 2013-01-10T01:33:44Z Rpeters 14 added preliminary guidance for new users of Linux wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner *Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS *SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model **check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported *most Linux distributions use the same scanning software **XSane is the most capable **scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps === Selection Guideance === #check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model #'''download''' and '''install''' relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project #*this can usually be done without the scanner physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Scanner Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network *HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:33, 10 January 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2423274a4caabf10e2ec8ad314481231b8d778ab 0 157 791 734 2013-01-10T03:03:43Z Rpeters 14 added outline of requirements to get Linux working on computers having Secure Boot wikitext text/x-wiki The new technologies being introduced with PC & disk drives manufactured in 2011 and later include the core technology of UEFI firmware and its related technologies: *AF disk drives *GPT disk partitioning *EFI boot routine *Secure Boot (within the UEFI firmware) More detailed guidelines, help and recommendations are available from: http://rodsbooks.com Many mainboards that were manufactured by Intel from 2006 include (U)EFI, but are likely to require upgrading to the latest available firmware release, in order to work reliably with the first three technologies above. Intel provide an ISO image of a bootable CD, which allows the upgrade to be done without Windows. == EFI Boot == The EFI bootloader within UEFI is capable of booting a kernel image directly, provided that the image has an extension of .efi. Getting this working, directly, requires being able to add to the boot entries in the mainboard's setup and this feature is not implemented on all mainboards. After entering the mainboard's setup, folllow the trail: Boot tab -> Boot Priority -> Add entry Workarounds include: #many current Linux installer routines will place an entry for a bootloader (eg grub.efi, although it is likely to be named after the distro) in the mainboard's boot priority list #the rEFInd boot manager from the above site will place an entry for itself in the mainboard's list. #*rEFInd is more flexible, being able to select various boot devices: #** a bootloader such as grub.efi #** a CD or USB boot device or #** a kernel file having .efi extension #*rEFInd also presents an attractive boot menu, having icon-interface EFI boot looks for FAT32 partitions having type code ef00 (type ESP). Contemporary kernel + initrd occupy > 20 MB. An ESP of several hundred MB is advisable if many OS will be installed on the PC or if older kernels are being retained. == Secure Boot == As of early 2013 the ability of Linux to work with secure boot is still uncertain. The pre-requiiste is one or both of: *Secure Boot being able to be set to ''DISABLED'' in UEFI *UEFI containing a Linux key **presently none do The UEFI specification does provide for Secure Boot to be able to be disabled *AMI provide this feature in their UEFI (although hardware makers might not implement it) Linux users are advised not to purchase a new computer (desktop or laptop) without first confirming that it will boot Linux (eg from CD Live CD or installed to USB stick) Secure boot '''can''' be disabled on the following models: http://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers/samsung/15-notebook-sku-90670/ [Category:Technical Info]] [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]14:03, 10 January 2013 (EST) 94c9c0f0ce52ee51fe917b9c5f90c4c5a94678ff 0 116 792 579 2013-01-10T03:15:10Z Rpeters 14 second release of model B & cases wikitext text/x-wiki A growing body of information is available at http://www.raspberrypi.org Only a few '''critical''' issues, that are easily overlooked, are summarised below == Models == Most will purchase the model B, which has Ethernet and more USB ports The second release of model B has 512 MB RAM in lieu 256 MB *likely to increase the variety of OS that are usable *earlier boards are not upgradeable, because all components are soldered in place == Case == The basic product is sold without a case. It does not fit in any "standard" blank case and has sockets on both sides as well as all four edges, making construction of a suitable case not a simple task. Cases are now being sold on the Raspberry Pi site. Alternatively, third-party cases are also marketed == Circuit Board == Power is supplied via the micro-USB connector at one end. The surface-mounted capacitor behind that connector is a known physical weak-point. *do not grip the board by that capacitor *preferably leave the micro-USB power cable permanently plugged in and power ON?OFF by either **powering the plug-pack/USB-hub ON?OFF or **disconnecting the other end of the power cable == Power Supply == #A raspberry pi draws 0.7A (700 mA) of '''regulated''' 5V power, which is beyond the capacity of most: #*USB sockets on a computer #*mains-USB plug packs #Suitable power supplies include #*mains-USB plug packs rated at 1A #**preferably having a '''single''' USB socket only #*USB-hubs capable to delivering 1 A to a '''single''' USB socket #**"Zipp" brand from Big W does - but check before purchasing #although the use of a USB-hub as a power source is deprecated by the manufacturers, it has been used sucessfully by the developers at http://www.ipfire.org. Critical factors are: #*regulated power to the hub #*1 A available to a single socket [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]14:15, 10 January 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 49c8c3707584ee2603d40770dfce03dae8f8b5b7 810 792 2013-01-26T01:53:05Z Rpeters 14 added scaled sketch of enclosure and construction notes wikitext text/x-wiki A growing body of information is available at http://www.raspberrypi.org Only a few '''critical''' issues, that are easily overlooked, are summarised below == Models == Most will purchase the model B, which has Ethernet and more USB ports The second release of model B has 512 MB RAM in lieu 256 MB *likely to increase the variety of OS that are usable *earlier boards are not upgradeable, because all components are soldered in place == Case == The basic product is sold without a case. It does not fit in any "standard" blank case and has sockets on both sides as well as all four edges, making construction of a suitable case not a simple task. Cases are now being sold on the Raspberry Pi site. Alternatively, third-party cases are also marketed The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case == Circuit Board == Power is supplied via the micro-USB connector at one end. The surface-mounted capacitor behind that connector is a known physical weak-point. *do not grip the board by that capacitor *preferably leave the micro-USB power cable permanently plugged in and power ON?OFF by either **powering the plug-pack/USB-hub ON?OFF or **disconnecting the other end of the power cable == Power Supply == #A raspberry pi draws 0.7A (700 mA) of '''regulated''' 5V power, which is beyond the capacity of most: #*USB sockets on a computer #*mains-USB plug packs #Suitable power supplies include #*mains-USB plug packs rated at 1A #**preferably having a '''single''' USB socket only #*USB-hubs capable to delivering 1 A to a '''single''' USB socket #**"Zipp" brand from Big W does - but check before purchasing #although the use of a USB-hub as a power source is deprecated by the manufacturers, it has been used sucessfully by the developers at http://www.ipfire.org. Critical factors are: #*regulated power to the hub #*1 A available to a single socket [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]12:53, 26 January 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 23ab2df7dff504e2a09ac73be670dd9c412a58da 0 167 795 2013-01-20T02:24:25Z Pblair 10 Created page with "If you are used to using your desktop to perform tasks, you will want to put one on your Windows 8 desktop. The value of this icon is that a right-click will take you to the '''…" wikitext text/x-wiki If you are used to using your desktop to perform tasks, you will want to put one on your Windows 8 desktop. The value of this icon is that a right-click will take you to the '''Manage''' item. From here, you get direct access to useful things, the main two being '''Device Manager''' and '''Disk Management'''. Placing an icon is quite easy. Go to the desktop and right-click on any clear space. A popup will provide some options - select the last one, '''Personalize'''. A new window will open. At the top left, click on '''Change Desktop Items'''. Now you can pick and choose which items to show - Computer, Network, Recycle Bin, User's files. ce03f3f845ed34a8947a76e6c4b7a28805acaeba 796 795 2013-01-20T02:24:57Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki If you are used to using your desktop to perform tasks, you will want to put one on your Windows 8 desktop. The value of this icon is that a right-click will take you to the '''Manage''' item. From here, you get direct access to useful things, the main two being '''Device Manager''' and '''Disk Management'''. Placing an icon is quite easy. Go to the desktop and right-click on any clear space. A popup will provide some options - select the last one, '''Personalize'''. A new window will open. At the top left, click on '''Change Desktop Items'''. Now you can pick and choose which items to show - Computer, Network, Recycle Bin, User's files. [[Category:Technical Info]] 1ccbe04d65c7c3907ac5d13aa6d29ffddd0bf367 798 796 2013-01-20T02:28:07Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki [[File:Icon1.jpg]] If you are used to using your desktop to perform tasks, you will want to put one on your Windows 8 desktop. The value of this icon is that a right-click will take you to the '''Manage''' item. From here, you get direct access to useful things, the main two being '''Device Manager''' and '''Disk Management'''. Placing an icon is quite easy. Go to the desktop and right-click on any clear space. A popup will provide some options - select the last one, '''Personalize'''. A new window will open. At the top left, click on '''Change Desktop Items'''. Now you can pick and choose which items to show - Computer, Network, Recycle Bin, User's files. [[Category:Technical Info]] c05857e59e05c1e77353f868d213284ea95366b4 799 798 2013-01-20T02:28:39Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki [[File:Icon1.jpg]] If you are used to using your desktop to perform tasks, you will want to put a Computer icon on your Windows 8 desktop. The value of this icon is that a right-click will take you to the '''Manage''' item. From here, you get direct access to useful things, the main two being '''Device Manager''' and '''Disk Management'''. Placing an icon is quite easy. Go to the desktop and right-click on any clear space. A popup will provide some options - select the last one, '''Personalize'''. A new window will open. At the top left, click on '''Change Desktop Items'''. Now you can pick and choose which items to show - Computer, Network, Recycle Bin, User's files. [[Category:Technical Info]] e31d7f130d2bb9b633ed5c2a4ca4ecb60fb072a7 6 168 797 2013-01-20T02:26:39Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 169 809 2013-01-26T01:47:59Z Rpeters 14 scaled sketch of an enclosure for Raspberry Pi, model B, contructed from CD media wikitext text/x-wiki scaled sketch of an enclosure for Raspberry Pi, model B, contructed from CD media 2f4a91a6c7fb0e2e6c0d036e9985a877d4d6bcff 0 4 811 726 2013-01-26T02:32:17Z Offcmngr 6 PCUG in 2013 item wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the TIP Wiki [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date 15 November, 2012'''''<br> * Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]] page for Excel, Access and ABC. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == TRAINING COURSE: Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel == '''''Item Date 17 October, 2012'''''<br/> * '''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When & Where:''' The course will be conducted over two sessions, each between 9.30 am and 12.00 pm on Wednesday 7 and 14 November 2012 at the PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $20 for PCUG members (or $40 for non-members) *'''Places:''' up to 6. COURSE NOW FULL, but expressions of interest are being accepted for scheduling of a new group with date TBA. *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 96f19a9a62b82931047a55f7b4a32269794b6991 814 811 2013-01-26T03:02:23Z Offcmngr 6 remove old VBA training notice wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the TIP Wiki [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date 15 November, 2012'''''<br> * Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]] page for Excel, Access and ABC. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d85945b03570af39810ea89228b5d4d4dd47649d 2 95 816 815 2013-01-31T22:44:04Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| |+Equipment Issues |- !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] bf29dbab8a23140a8e654de09bdad0d937bec76b 817 816 2013-01-31T22:49:17Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+ align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| ''Equipment Issues'' |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| |+ |- !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2839f7caefce76919d3536b2f89ff07c03a904bb 819 817 2013-02-01T05:28:01Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 25abaaa73c05b09a3b515eaa85493d02fa8c8b07 820 819 2013-02-01T05:33:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7679d94d3d183acf1dd54ab042d0ef4510db51da 821 820 2013-02-01T05:34:48Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2716377355814f5de98662d5c3e0f90e41e13f3c 822 821 2013-02-01T05:36:43Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 15b9efa5b5ddc902815ab5ee22702cfdd7df3733 823 822 2013-02-01T05:54:39Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 43442d06d98af9c9b7cd96a3ed5489fcc98236e7 824 823 2013-02-01T06:01:28Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="6"|''Equipment Issues - Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Orange | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Apple |- | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Bread | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Pie |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] cdbabd3009b47277497b2d105ffc17bca0bad0ea 825 824 2013-02-01T06:03:11Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 ||no start || power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="6"|''Equipment Issues - Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Apple |- | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Bread | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Pie |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] d6c7f76e0af51ed7ec82ad56c687c0bd4f1e02a0 826 825 2013-02-01T06:05:26Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || set asside as spares || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="6"|''Equipment Issues - Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="2"|no power up | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Apple |- | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Bread | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| Pie |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] dc69c2082748bc428772f79412b126f4f9e4715c 827 826 2013-02-01T06:08:45Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="6"|''Equipment Issues - Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="2"|owers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester |- | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| set asside as spares |Rod |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] ba3529f1e8f5697b5a75e337514e6a3fbd1eac93 828 827 2013-02-01T06:11:10Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="6"|''Equipment Issues - Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| set asside as spares |Rod |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] ed91521806ab2e7fafe5180a8fd976c34764ecc1 829 828 2013-02-01T06:17:25Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="6"|''Equipment Issues - Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px" | "color:#e76700;"set asside as spares |Rod |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7b38bf8f546d94034834cf758a629ce1e35e148f 830 829 2013-02-01T06:19:05Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="6"|''Equipment Issues - Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";"color:#e76700;"set asside as spares |Rod |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 190cfcbd5ae660e7078ec92bcd99bdc419ff6d5e 831 830 2013-02-01T06:21:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt |} {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="6"|''Equipment Issues - Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";"color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares |Rod |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6bb4b82756d7689afa47caefd14bf429e0fe3be5 832 831 2013-02-01T06:25:41Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 8f1d3ef515db0e958478376dd159245f27d72337 833 832 2013-02-02T04:46:22Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Participant<br/>No. !! Confirmation<br/>Status !! Member !! PCUG No: !! Contact !! E/O received<br/>how !! E/O received<br/>when !! Payment Status |- |1/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |2/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - ||- ||- ||-|| - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || -|| - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c1bb31396d4ef4df329c429d602b2920dd688d92 835 833 2013-02-03T23:46:26Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Participant<br/>No. !! Confirmation<br/>Status !! Member !! PCUG No: !! Contact !! E/O received<br/>how !! E/O received<br/>when !! Payment Status |- rowspan="4"|Old Train 11|| - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |2/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - ||- ||- ||-|| - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || -|| - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 57d00462951605d40f306e38814e40a292eb42d7 836 835 2013-02-03T23:51:07Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device<br/>No. !! Issue<br/>Action !! Result !! Decision No: !! Volunteer !! E/O received<br/>how !! E/O received<br/>when !! Payment Status |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11|| - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13|| - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - ||- ||- ||-|| - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || -|| - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 95a3ad98e26fd64a361f682ad0361b92f282e0d3 837 836 2013-02-03T23:54:15Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"|powers up for only a few seconds | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device<br/>No. !! Issue<br/>Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved<br/>Reserved !! Reserved<br/>Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - ||- ||- ||-|| - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || -|| - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c5618c7364d0d764bef83f84ab94ddc4bbfe8455 838 837 2013-02-03T23:56:29Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device<br/>No. !! Issue<br/>Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved<br/>Reserved !! Reserved<br/>Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - ||- ||- ||-|| - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || -|| - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 80c2be396bfdd1bfad76769397a0335b922074eb 839 838 2013-02-04T00:00:39Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue>Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved>Reserved !! Reserved>Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - ||- ||- ||-|| - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || -|| - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c06593bd306f3b70c597b08025ea7904c962ed7c 840 839 2013-02-04T00:01:49Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - ||- ||- ||-|| - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || -|| - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 87f693d21ebb2d1a8d3c2ee5cceacb6245049a6d 841 840 2013-02-04T00:03:36Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - ||- ||- ||-|| - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || -|| - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 5bdaa0d37279a4511ab0d3c47e984897fb01d1c9 842 841 2013-02-04T00:05:37Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || - || |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 82e1e78ba6ea65f9e0c860c0f70fbcc0b0417e3a 843 842 2013-02-04T00:07:06Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] ef97b34a943ddc0a3750842a7b687f93d176b7c0 844 843 2013-02-04T00:10:02Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 89dbdbe5b7920a48220f227a75199875f1d63cbf 845 844 2013-02-04T00:13:07Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || *power supply tester || OK only intermittently || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 62d9729fbe2a893dfcedcfe54a344684d6e79cd9 846 845 2013-02-04T00:14:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | *power supply tester || OK only intermittently || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;" set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 9c57df2e610a79bfb3357e0512cee86627f5e894 847 846 2013-02-04T00:19:26Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | *power supply tester || style="color:#e76700;"|OK only intermittently || - || - || - || - || - || | *alternate power supply || style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 1843aae5a18e8161e4de06d130bccfd1ffcfeb2d 848 847 2013-02-04T00:25:21Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" style="border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 0; border: 1px solid #000; padding: 0" |+Food complements |- |Orange |Apple |- |Bread |Pie |- |Butter |Ice cream |} {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- |Cheese |colspan="2"|Ice cream |Butter |Yogurt == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Decision !! Volunteer !! Reserved !! Reserved |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| *power supply tester *alternate power supply || style="color:#e76700;"|OK only intermittently || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 8a2f7b3315227f30753d81ba52ac6d710e94cbc9 849 848 2013-02-04T00:29:19Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds |||rowspan="4"| *power supply tester *alternate power supply || - || - || - || - || - || || style="color:#e76700;"|OK only intermittently || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] b7a0df327c63526d267845f204b844bf6e9f3af3 850 849 2013-02-04T00:30:50Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||rowspan="4"| *power supply tester *alternate power supply || - || - || - || - || - || || style="color:#e76700;"|OK only intermittently || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 345596eb21f67f3789eef7e929ca849b8df8c787 851 850 2013-02-04T00:33:27Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||rowspan="4"| *power supply tester *alternate power supply |style="color:#e76700;"|*OK only intermittently| - || - || - || - || - || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 1494ae50b0759e178fe17e2c924f1f23bdde2fbe 852 851 2013-02-04T00:35:35Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||rowspan="4"| *power supply tester *alternate power supply |style="color:#e76700;"| *OK only intermittently *fails to start| - || - || - || - || - || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;" || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 0f108eafefc41a1779cbd0461409c60c29f59e8f 853 852 2013-02-04T00:38:52Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds || *power supply tester *alternate power supply |style="color:#e76700;"| *OK only intermittently *fails to start| - || - || |style="color:#e76700;"| *unresolved *unresolved - || - || - || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;" || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 8e73056f2e309470c809820d7de30cde6255a5af 854 853 2013-02-04T00:43:44Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#e76700;"| unresolved || - || - || Rod || 2 alternate power supply |style="color:#e76700;"| *OK only intermittently *fails to start| - || - || *unresolved - || - || - || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;" || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 8e73a9c2720b164f62cc9890241a7d501fdfa4b3 855 854 2013-02-04T00:45:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#e76700;"| OK only intermittently || style="color:#e76700;"| unresolved || - || - || Rod || 2 alternate power supply |style="color:#e76700;"| * *fails to start| - || - || *unresolved - || - || - || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;" || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 624e504fae8bef2b7a9b4362fe644295b8dbd3c2 856 855 2013-02-04T00:46:21Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#e76700;"| OK only intermittently || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| unresolved || Rod || 2 alternate power supply |style="color:#e76700;"| * *fails to start| - || - || *unresolved - || - || - || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;" || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4a1e83e3af5dd4ebe978298fefc451dd6bce9ce0 857 856 2013-02-04T00:47:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#e76700;"| OK only intermittently || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| unresolved || Rod || |2 alternate power supply |style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start| - || - ||style="color:#e76700;"|unresolved - || - || Rod || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;" || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] b084f99a7a72d35e4100e919f2373c80e06a8d9d 858 857 2013-02-04T00:50:21Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#e76700;"| OK only intermittently || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| unresolved || Rod || |-2 alternate power supply |style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start| - || - ||style="color:#e76700;"|unresolved - || - || Rod || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;" || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c1d3694e3580ed43f22d3a0fa6888ab4ce62c682 859 858 2013-02-04T00:51:34Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- == Equipment Issues == {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#e76700;"| OK only intermittently || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| unresolved || Rod || |-2 alternate power supply ||style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start| - || - ||style="color:#e76700;"|unresolved - || - || Rod || || || - || - || - || - || - || | || style="color:#e76700;" || - || - || - || - || - |||- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4bebcdf3f7703f1c0f764d691e4852121eebe2d6 860 859 2013-02-04T01:01:32Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Action !! Result !! Reserved !! Reserved !! Decision !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#e76700;"| OK only intermittently || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| unresolved || Rod || |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:#e76700;"|fails to start|| - || - ||style="color:#e76700;"|unresolved - || Rod || |- | || || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;" - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#e76700;"| set asside as spares || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || - || - || - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || | || || - || - || - || - || - |||- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] fc3fefa80eec730132ce4c5a64ea8d250c94878b 861 860 2013-02-04T01:27:27Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !!Decision !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:##ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:#ee3900;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - || |- |3/10 || - || - || - || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - || |- |4/10 || - || - | |- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || #005900 - || |- |5/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || | || || - || - || - || - || - |||- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c31e1c41f00a87f1ab806a17ae93a5f1ef055d89 862 861 2013-02-04T01:37:16Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !!Decision !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:#ee3900;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - |- |2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - | |- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod | || || - || - || - || - || - |||- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 751b3817ab9b7c42f88f1a3a0379302cccd4ed59 863 862 2013-02-04T01:42:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !!Decision !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 13||rowspan="4"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- |2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - | |- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - |-|| || - || - || - || - || - |||- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 5b480afeb345df8471911ead02f2e529ddfcd098 864 863 2013-02-04T01:50:16Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !!Decision !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - | style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - |- | || - || - || - || - || - |||- |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] edb4e1d0c947141ea659a5ea0229621c4551021b 865 864 2013-02-04T01:54:23Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !!Decision !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01||rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - | - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - | style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - |- | || - || - || - || - || - |||- |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] e4a1c4a0cd7da7eef4d31563e7e214d00ed0b447 0 112 818 813 2013-02-01T00:28:17Z Offcmngr 6 /* Excel for Beginners */ adjust dates wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Training Team: Peter Barker, assisted by Bob Winchester. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: Wed 10 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 2: Wed 17 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 3: Wed 24 April, 2013 10am-midday * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 26 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 8835d07c36fdd959c113785b572938e39367ea1c 0 121 834 608 2013-02-03T05:12:48Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki To help make the transition: * [http://sourceforge.net/projects/classicshell/?source=directory Add classic Start menu] * [http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/ Another Start menu] * [http://tinyurl.com/9dk7qka Keyboard & Navigation shortcuts] * [http://tinyurl.com/8k9ua84 How to Add the Old Control Panel to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/7v8yjuz How to Boot to the Desktop & Skip Metro in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9c7cfu4 Go Directly to Desktop Mode in Windows 8 on Login (Without Installing Extra Software)] * [http://tinyurl.com/98zoxvv How to Name Groups of Apps on the Windows 8 Metro Start Screen] * [http://tinyurl.com/9apth8n How to Pin Apps or Folders to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9f8xycc Organize Tiles into Groups on the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/9nushlp Pin Your Favorite Websites to the Metro Start Screen in Windows 8] * [http://tinyurl.com/8pqlq5a How to Make Windows 8 Metro Web Tiles Open in the Desktop Browser] * [http://tinyurl.com/8t6d62p Beginner: How to Disable a Live Tile in Windows 8] Ignore the references to the Metro screen - think instead of the UI screen. By January 2013, the Metro screen had been renamed as the Modern Screen. Credits: How-to Geeks/SourceForge/Microsoft [[Category:Technical Info]] 98c251335a0d4159704c71818855115814a67fe5 2 95 866 865 2013-02-04T01:57:39Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !!Decision !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01||rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - | style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - |- | || - || - || - || - || - |||- |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 22884191a6e30a6cac2503b903d15d4a3b15a9f4 867 866 2013-02-04T02:17:16Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !!Decision !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 "freezing" || rowspan="4"| || || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01||rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - | style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - |- | || - || - || - || - || - |||- |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c76cc4d5cd6fa5e91138de1d627c36c508441a67 868 867 2013-02-04T02:23:21Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01||rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || - |- | || - || - || - || - || - |||- |- |6/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |7/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |- |8/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |9/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- |10/10 || - || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 530b012f0edbfcac05288e47ff990626e31e0946 869 868 2013-02-04T02:37:10Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01||rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| set asside as spares || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || | - || - || - || - || - || | - || - || - || - || - || |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] fbeb6a13590d4cb947c209310302579f0254b96b 870 869 2013-02-04T02:44:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] da0b6d34f894a2cdd811664eefc3bf9ad99ae844 871 870 2013-02-04T22:17:56Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == eWaste == |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 89c869fb8bfdb8c3580dc92e6eb650b045c82057 872 871 2013-02-04T23:16:36Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == eWaste == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} == Equipment Issues == {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7edc6beef76d4378639881aa2fb5a19b27085583 878 872 2013-02-11T01:20:32Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 57b005b4ea3491d295225bce999e46fa004c9da0 903 878 2013-03-30T23:13:39Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 8948f111f803a62979a7d117abdab69b07d78f25 904 903 2013-03-31T00:43:10Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. Where a computer supports only 32-bit Linux a PAE kernel is likely to provide additional protection against malware. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *during installation, if a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet === CPU Models === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or commonly no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. * == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] f85ca5f0a3b71b50f681d16b4c503a257457a405 905 904 2013-03-31T01:06:52Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === CPU Models === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 918f7a39d755d21639a771e0fa0bf30f747507de 906 905 2013-03-31T22:54:36Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2bc4324fe40e20a0a7bb525fec65438674ab786e 0 112 873 818 2013-02-07T02:51:31Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: Wed 10 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 2: Wed 17 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 3: Wed 24 April, 2013 10am-midday * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $45 (or $25 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 26 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 910d16eca0d74789e45dd36b6e7eee6627f50c29 874 873 2013-02-07T02:53:09Z Offcmngr 6 /* Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel */ price correction wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Courses for February 2013 == === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === *Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: Wed 10 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 2: Wed 17 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 3: Wed 24 April, 2013 10am-midday * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 26 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 45b06baacd54319a911b5eae61c8ce2f7f157d47 909 874 2013-04-08T04:02:03Z Offcmngr 6 Complete page info rehash (new sections for current on previous courses) wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: Wed 24 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 2: Wed 1 May, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 3: Wed 8 May, 2013 10am-midday * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs fortnightly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Homework is allocated for you to do at home in the "off" week) <br/> ** Session 1 - Tues 26 Feb, 2013 ** Session 2 - Tues 12 March 2013 ** Session 3 - Tues 26 March 2013 ** Session 4 - Tues 9 April 2013 ** Session 5 - Tues 23 April 2013 ** Session 6 - Tues 7 May 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Past Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $65 (or $45 for PCUG members) == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 909fb1093b5b0a3c4cf7f912980a9bd32b948d4e 0 7 875 802 2013-02-09T08:57:25Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 2f48c5430edf0498b74af278f96c6f625d25f11a 879 875 2013-03-06T04:37:27Z Mikec 31 /* Web */ Webmail attachments wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * Webmail attachments * This tip is provided by Bob Ecclestone and posted on his behalf. It involves Windows 7, IE8 (and IE9 I think) and web based mail browsers. PROBLEM: Can not open attachments in web based mail clients, including MS Remote Office (I think that is the name, it has been a while). CAUSE: "Do not save encrypted pages to disk" option is checked in IE Advanced settings. I live on the road fulltime and do all my banking via the net so I have this option set. I am currently using XP Pro SP3 and IE8. This problem does not occur. FIX: Uncheck "Do not save encrypted pages to disk" option in IE Advanced settings. NOTE: This can be done on a session basis just to download email if required and then reset to enable greater protection for online transactions. Hope this helps someone. I discovered it in early 2011 and it nearly drove me nuts, our IT support company could not solve it and Microsoft were useless(gasps of surprise!). Cheers...Bob posted by Mike Cassidy Info Wiki: Technical ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a8db8e0ffc7ad6e75adc74e2b24abbae74e98d1e 880 879 2013-03-06T04:39:24Z Mikec 31 /* Web */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * Webmail attachments * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 2d11a5714f21873c48b10160147f8929e57981b5 881 880 2013-03-06T04:40:22Z Mikec 31 /* Web */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] * ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] c9948533d16e8d47e9fd99da208fc61e31535ad0 894 881 2013-03-22T22:21:27Z Pblair 10 /* Internet */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 374beebf8a6a276f445575e8a7322ee18e3eca2e 907 894 2013-03-31T22:57:52Z Rpeters 14 added Linux Distribution 64-bit v 32-bit wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] cb1e6e3d4115bea05c69c470bb2f8989aa96e3d4 0 170 876 2013-02-09T09:03:25Z Pblair 10 Created page with "In Windows 8, Microsoft has removed the automatic file deletion confirmation in File Explorer. To turn it back on, go to Recycle Bin (on the desktop) and right-click the icon. T…" wikitext text/x-wiki In Windows 8, Microsoft has removed the automatic file deletion confirmation in File Explorer. To turn it back on, go to Recycle Bin (on the desktop) and right-click the icon. Then left-click on Properties. The last item on the dialog will say "Display delete confirmation dialog", so put a tick in that box. Click OK, and that's done. You might imagine that the confirmation will apply only to items being deleted from the Recycle Bin. But is also allows confirmation when a file or folder is being deleted from File Explorer. [[Technical Info]] 1e8614deff5d17682bce9ee4fd1ebb9e5fa2fb7c 877 876 2013-02-09T09:04:12Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki In Windows 8, Microsoft has removed the automatic file deletion confirmation in File Explorer. To turn it back on, go to Recycle Bin (on the desktop) and right-click the icon. Then left-click on Properties. The last item on the dialog will say "Display delete confirmation dialog", so put a tick in that box. Click OK, and that's done. You might imagine that the confirmation will apply only to items being deleted from the Recycle Bin. But is also allows confirmation when a file or folder is being deleted from File Explorer. [[Category:Technical Info]] 989c3051d85630d89a77e40afbb00a567634ac3b 0 171 882 2013-03-06T04:42:49Z Mikec 31 Category: Technical: opening attachemtns in Webmail clients wikitext text/x-wiki This tip is provided by Bob Ecclestone and posted on his behalf. Bob wrote: It involves Windows 7, IE8 (and IE9 I think) and web based mail browsers. PROBLEM: Can not open attachments in web based mail clients, including MS Remote Office (I think that is the name, it has been a while). CAUSE: "Do not save encrypted pages to disk" option is checked in IE Advanced settings. I live on the road fulltime and do all my banking via the net so I have this option set. I am currently using XP Pro SP3 and IE8. This problem does not occur. FIX: Uncheck "Do not save encrypted pages to disk" option in IE Advanced settings. NOTE: This can be done on a session basis just to download email if required and then reset to enable greater protection for online transactions. Hope this helps someone. I discovered it in early 2011 and it nearly drove me nuts, our IT support company could not solve it and Microsoft were useless(gasps of surprise!). Cheers...Bob posted by Mike Cassidy 58fe2601d0ec46ebd45fa5428d5207a6eb8c4504 883 882 2013-03-06T04:44:23Z Mikec 31 wikitext text/x-wiki This tip is provided by Bob Ecclestone and posted on his behalf. Bob wrote: It involves Windows 7, IE8 (and IE9 I think) and web based mail browsers. PROBLEM: Can not open attachments in web based mail clients, including MS Remote Office (I think that is the name, it has been a while). CAUSE: "Do not save encrypted pages to disk" option is checked in IE Advanced settings. I live on the road fulltime and do all my banking via the net so I have this option set. I am currently using XP Pro SP3 and IE8. This problem does not occur. FIX: Uncheck "Do not save encrypted pages to disk" option in IE Advanced settings. NOTE: This can be done on a session basis just to download email if required and then reset to enable greater protection for online transactions. Hope this helps someone. I discovered it in early 2011 and it nearly drove me nuts, our IT support company could not solve it and Microsoft were useless(gasps of surprise!). Cheers...Bob posted by Mike Cassidy [[Category:Technical Info]] c1d4071c2c28512c68500201b803fc1ec8693042 0 110 884 732 2013-03-11T01:29:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export a range of documents as well *PDF *DOC & dotDOCX documents *XLS *PPT. == Documentation == *comprhensive editing help is available via the HELP menu within openoffice variants *LibreOffice additionally provide a conventional user guides that may be downloaded in dotODT or dotPDF format http://www.libreoffice.org/get-help/documentation/ == LibreOffice == A major upgrade to version 4 was released in February 2013. *significant change in menu structures *conversion guide available from above documentation repository [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]12:29, 11 March 2013 (EST) - * 7627c46b2d0384ab94ef12177ad98dac1236eff5 2 31 885 510 2013-03-17T00:11:02Z Lpb 2 Survey summary notes wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More on Working with Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] * [[Android App Recommendations]] * [[Draft Page]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == == Lawrie's PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued & promoted by a significant majority * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances === Playing with Tables === <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} 4ee0882d6ab928991aabaf4541b6ef3fc9ceabfc 886 885 2013-03-17T00:29:12Z Lpb 2 2013 Member Survey summary wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More on Working with Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] * [[Android App Recommendations]] * [[Draft Page]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == == Lawrie's PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux? Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! === Playing with Tables === <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} bb00cb8028196881128f032497543708e19a6eff 888 886 2013-03-18T11:11:07Z Lpb 2 Add link to new "Member Survey 2013" page, move survey response text to new page wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More on Working with Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] * [[Android App Recommendations]] * [[Draft Page]] * [[Member Survey 2013]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == === Playing with Tables === <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} 0391cc7fcbc0dd05b2d8d9aa4d1b5a1fedd0caf4 0 172 887 2013-03-18T11:10:34Z Lpb 2 Initial content includes backgroud from Office Survey page, plus my summary of responses from Lpb scratch page wikitext text/x-wiki This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013. A total of 346 responses were received. A summary report with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available to members. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]]. == Response to Survey == Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following: * note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address * will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney * will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses * will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use * need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs more TBA == PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!) Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! == Background == ''' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013'''. The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members. Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable. Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities. For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources. One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available. We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations. The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers. e17393e0d1b290d77dfa015505a81da4895a3c07 889 887 2013-03-18T11:16:44Z Lpb 2 Add section on "Volunteers Needed" wikitext text/x-wiki This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013. A total of 346 responses were received. A summary report with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available to members. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]]. == Response to Survey == Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following: * note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address * will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney * will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses * will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use * need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs more TBA == Volunteers Needed == * a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen * need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known * need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen * for group to have a future need more users doing the helping! == PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!) Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! == Background == ''' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013'''. The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members. Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable. Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities. For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources. One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available. We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations. The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers. 913c232b70f42dcea097e165d69a0500b698d8f0 890 889 2013-03-18T11:17:42Z Lpb 2 /* Background */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013. A total of 346 responses were received. A summary report with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available to members. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]]. == Response to Survey == Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following: * note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address * will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney * will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses * will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use * need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs more TBA == Volunteers Needed == * a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen * need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known * need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen * for group to have a future need more users doing the helping! == PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!) Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! == Background == '' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''. The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members. Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable. Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities. For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources. One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available. We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations. The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers. 4f2068971f6f47912f05a8d44af761b926072944 891 890 2013-03-18T11:20:25Z Lpb 2 /* Response to Survey */ add demographic note wikitext text/x-wiki This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013. A total of 346 responses were received. A summary report with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available to members. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]]. == Response to Survey == Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following: * note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address * will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney * will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses * will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use * need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs * note that given the clear older demographic of the group, that we need to address their needs, and that trying to attract a significantly younger membership is likely to be problematic, even disasterous more TBA == Volunteers Needed == * a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen * need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known * need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen * for group to have a future need more users doing the helping! == PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!) Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! == Background == '' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''. The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members. Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable. Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities. For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources. One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available. We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations. The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers. aa3e8c2742b93a725ff8db1a380c726182e5d712 892 891 2013-03-18T22:59:47Z Lpb 2 Add link to report for members, & note about under development wikitext text/x-wiki This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013. <span style="color:red">Please Note: This page is under development, and content will change and evolve!</span> A total of 346 responses were received. A [https://www.pcug.org.au/members/documents/membsurvey2013.pdf summary report] with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available in the members area. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses, is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]]. == Response to Survey == Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following: * note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address * will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney * will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOG? on presenting genealogy courses * will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use * need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs * note that given the clear older demographic of the group, that we need to address their needs, and that trying to attract a significantly younger membership is likely to be problematic, even disasterous more TBA == Volunteers Needed == * a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen * need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known * need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen * for group to have a future need more users doing the helping! == PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!) Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! == Background == '' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''. The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members. Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable. Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities. For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources. One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available. We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations. The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers. 408f7fac0b4453a8ea793721c7aab7e75bb213fc 893 892 2013-03-21T09:37:03Z Pblair 10 /* Response to Survey */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013. <span style="color:red">Please Note: This page is under development, and content will change and evolve!</span> A total of 346 responses were received. A [https://www.pcug.org.au/members/documents/membsurvey2013.pdf summary report] with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available in the members area. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses, is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]]. == Response to Survey == Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following: * note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address * will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney * will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOC on presenting genealogy courses * will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter) use * need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs * note that given the clear older demographic of the group, that we need to address their needs, and that trying to attract a significantly younger membership is likely to be problematic, even disasterous more TBA == Volunteers Needed == * a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen * need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known * need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen * for group to have a future need more users doing the helping! == PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!) Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! == Background == '' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''. The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members. Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable. Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities. For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources. One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available. We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations. The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers. 2ebaff6fe1f9f367ad3330e599c2f3bebeef94d4 0 173 895 2013-03-22T22:26:02Z Pblair 10 Created page with "'''Sharing Family Tree Information''' Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family …" wikitext text/x-wiki '''Sharing Family Tree Information''' Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. PCUG offers hosting, you can read about it here [http://www.example.com] (http://hosting.tip.net.au/). If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being webtrees and The Next Generation (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. 69020f3c6e00e9cab73d33d2c31c904693701b7a 896 895 2013-03-22T22:30:39Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Sharing Family Tree Information''' Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. PCUG offers hosting, you can read about it [http://hosting.tip.net.au here]. If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being ''webtrees'' and ''The Next Generation'' (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. 894b2e3fb77e0dbff1370068ffbe73c087a28b03 897 896 2013-03-22T22:31:43Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Sharing Family Tree Information''' Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. PCUG offers hosting, you can read about it [http://hosting.tip.net.au here]. If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being ''webtrees'' and ''The Next Generation'' (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. [[Category:Technical Info]] 43f96af70c8f704a148a0d7890a97e07026e5a78 898 897 2013-03-24T00:08:28Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Sharing Family Tree Information''' Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. PCUG offers hosting, you can read about it [http://hosting.tip.net.au here]. If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet Your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being ''webtrees'' and ''The Next Generation'' (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. [[Category:Technical Info]] 7d3fb82661b4b0726daa0e62390a38f8cc8f9ae8 899 898 2013-03-24T07:02:37Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Sharing Family Tree Information''' Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. PCUG offers hosting, you can read about it [http://hosting.tip.net.au here]. If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data and the scripts live in the hosted web space, so there are a few things you will need to learn to help manage them. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet Your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being ''webtrees'' and ''The Next Generation'' (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. [[Category:Technical Info]] bd19fd4df5dadfd1639d3bdf654a748274ecc3cb 900 899 2013-03-24T22:37:19Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Sharing Family Tree Information''' Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. PCUG offers hosting, you can read about it [http://hosting.tip.net.au here]. If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data and the scripts live in the hosted web space, so there are a few things you will need to learn to help manage them. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - you amend the data and the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet Your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being ''webtrees'' and ''The Next Generation'' (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. [[Category:Technical Info]] ef578e1376779b50f363e54e0b7f770784af93f0 901 900 2013-03-26T04:04:42Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Sharing Family Tree Information''' Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. PCUG offers hosting, you can read about it [http://hosting.tip.net.au here]. If you would prefer to experiment at home first, you can set up your own server - see the wiki items [http://pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Web_hosting at]. If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data and the scripts live in the hosted web space, so there are a few things you will need to learn to help manage them. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - you amend the data and the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet Your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being ''webtrees'' and ''The Next Generation'' (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. [[Category:Technical Info]] 2ad75f3d555956151a34b5c6a669bc346545731d 902 901 2013-03-28T02:28:26Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. PCUG offers hosting, you can read about it [http://hosting.tip.net.au here]. If you would prefer to experiment at home first, you can set up your own server - see the wiki items [http://pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Web_hosting at]. If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data and the scripts live in the hosted web space, so there are a few things you will need to learn to help manage them. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - you amend the data and the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet Your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being ''webtrees'' and ''The Next Generation'' (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. [[Category:Technical Info]] 4e01de4a53632ce87f262cc7b010b050c341f070 0 174 908 2013-03-31T23:06:39Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "== For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now …" wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a 32-bit Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display an error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider 0ec604a957daf27d0dc95bf02493aa4603ba1de2 0 5 910 549 2013-04-15T01:27:20Z Offcmngr 6 /* Action Items Assistance Required */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * The [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG CALENDAR] gives an agenda of events about volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) * Specifics of [[Training Courses | TRAINING COURSES]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) * Specifics of [[Special Interest Groups - SIGS |SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS]] (information to follow) * Information of AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS is grouped with [[Newsletters | NEWSLETTERS]] == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == Action Items Assistance Required == This is a page where requests for assistance to direct PCUG matters may be placed in the spirit of "Users Helping Users". == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 6295829e4c8c746c86959548fc559906b6296c81 911 910 2013-04-15T01:29:10Z Offcmngr 6 /* Action Items Assistance Required */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * The [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG CALENDAR] gives an agenda of events about volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) * Specifics of [[Training Courses | TRAINING COURSES]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) * Specifics of [[Special Interest Groups - SIGS |SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS]] (information to follow) * Information of AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS is grouped with [[Newsletters | NEWSLETTERS]] == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == [[Action Items Assistance Required]] == This is a page where requests for assistance to direct PCUG matters may be placed in the spirit of "Users Helping Users".<br/r> Please go directly to the page to find PCUG tasks needing help. == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] b8d9727d79cc76e74a714df699cdd97e9b4c1086 0 175 912 2013-04-15T01:35:55Z Offcmngr 6 Page creation and explanation wikitext text/x-wiki *In the Spirit of Users Helping Users, PCUG members may place requests for assistance from other members in support items directly related to PCUG tasks. *This could be for PCUG Centre, Training, Special Interest Groups, TIP Administration, and more. A request can relate to the simplest of requests. *If in doubt of the validity of an item placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager for confirmation. *Please do not leave personal details such as phone numbers or email addresses on this page, as the page is fully viewable on the WWW. *Examples of Requests ''[content to follow]'' == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] b73ec02e7349fa899554b7392a568d3630a77b07 913 912 2013-04-15T01:58:29Z Offcmngr 6 TR Software maintenance task. wikitext text/x-wiki == Page Welcome == *In the Spirit of Users Helping Users, PCUG members may place requests for assistance from other members in support items directly related to PCUG tasks. *This could be for PCUG Centre, Training, Special Interest Groups, TIP Administration, and more. A request can relate to the simplest of requests, and may be added by any PCUG member in need assistance in support of a PCUG service or member benefit. *If in doubt of the validity of an item placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager for confirmation. *Contact is preferred via the appropriate [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms Contact Forms]. Please do not leave personal details such as phone numbers or email addresses on this page, as the page is fully viewable on the WWW. == Training Tasks == === Training Room Software Maintenance === * Item Placed 15/4/2013, Item Revised 15/4/2013 * Contact to discuss [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager] * The Training Room machines are in need of a coordinator and support team to work with the current trainer group to maintain the software configuration requirements of the TR machines. NB: The 8 new Dell Machines have 3yr next day service warranty for hardware. The 4 other TR stations are running the older machines for which we have back-up machines available in storage. - Set-up students accounts on all Training Room machines - Configure the student accounts for per requirements for SIGs and Training - Configure back-up machines concurrently. - Establish back-up procedures suited to the needs of the TR machines. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 89f3088838f6f8a1aa288fc9588c191d7829cc0c 914 913 2013-04-15T02:09:26Z Offcmngr 6 /* Training Room Coordinator */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Page Welcome == *In the Spirit of Users Helping Users, PCUG members may place requests for assistance from other members in support items directly related to PCUG tasks. *This could be for PCUG Centre, Training, Special Interest Groups, TIP Administration, and more. A request can relate to the simplest of requests, and may be added by any PCUG member in need assistance in support of a PCUG service or member benefit. *If in doubt of the validity of an item placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager for confirmation. *Contact is preferred via the appropriate [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms Contact Forms]. Please do not leave personal details such as phone numbers or email addresses on this page, as the page is fully viewable on the WWW. == Training Tasks == === Training Room Maintenance Coordinator === * Item Placed 15/4/2013, Item Revised 15/4/2013 * Contact to discuss [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager] * The Training Room machines are in need of a coordinator and support team to work with the current trainer group to maintain the software configuration requirements of the TR machines. NB: The 8 new Dell Machines have 3yr next day service warranty for hardware. The 4 other TR stations are running the older machines for which we have back-up machines available in storage. - Set-up students accounts on all Training Room machines - Configure the student accounts for per requirements for SIGs and Training - Configure back-up machines concurrently. - Establish back-up procedures suited to the needs of the TR machines. === Training Room Promotion Coordinator === * activities in support of this continue. A coordinator for this role would be welcomed. Please contact Karen at PCUG Office if interested. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] dec2e025bc80d32234980b0827dfa672fb186e8a 0 131 915 665 2013-04-24T06:03:00Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Spam == As defined in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different unsolicitied communications. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive:- # Without a subject; # From a sender you do not know or recognize; # Offering something too good (even a $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true; # Without greeting you by name; # Containing poor written English; # And have a file.zip attachment; # Containing a link, and when you hover over it with a mouse it does not display a trustworthy webpage; # Asking for your personal details. Banks *never* do this == What Can You Do About Email Spam? == Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult (it wouldn't be the major concern that it is were this not so), you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam to yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept '''any''' form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you take to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. # make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's emails. Please note that whilst [http://www.tip.net.au/ PCUG/TIP] utilize some anti-spam measures, we '''do not''' employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and admin resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Spam TIP Wiki Spam page]. If these are not sufficient for your requirements, then you need to use some of the following alternatives. # make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your email client. Many email clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns what you regard as spam (or not). With sufficient training, this can help classify emails fairly well, as you wish. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or [https://www.tip.net.au/webmail/ webmail] to access your email. # [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email_Forwarding Forward your Email] to another ISP, or to a large web-email provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced email filters, and then access and read your email from this site. == Further Information == Sites you can visit to find out more about "spam" are:- * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] * [https://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs20-spam.htm Anti-Spam Consumer Resources and Information] * [http://www.spamtrackers.eu/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Spamtrackers SpamWiki] == See Also == * [[Scams]] - for details on scams, which may well be spread by spam [[Category:Technical Info]] 27df70f97b1e02c280a65b4fc2b977a46bf43801 0 50 916 277 2013-04-27T05:15:14Z Prichter 15 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 2f427d0f439dd3d3f6358b5754949f9a17dd7995 0 137 917 666 2013-05-13T09:05:05Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] * Scam Warnings ** [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] [[Category:Technical Info]] 531060d0555e1a20ac1cd979b8401aafa94b741c 928 917 2013-06-08T03:56:43Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] * Scam Warnings ** [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] ** [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] [[Category:Technical Info]] 2c11e63bc728e376102b6cf5eb2228477f2ead9d 929 928 2013-06-08T15:40:22Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] * Scam Warnings ** [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] ** [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] ** [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] [[Category:Technical Info]] 3e615e4cd33a36fbab570e59ab9450c021694012 940 929 2013-06-13T13:40:09Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] * Scam Warnings ** [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] ** [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] ** [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] [[Category:Technical Info]] b2f5b4061946c3d824a2ce458a38f53cdac7dbf6 948 940 2013-06-19T14:56:54Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] * Scam Warnings ** [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] ** [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] ** [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] ** [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] [[Category:Technical Info]] 8dbc1e5f0e62e4dd9a57416e04ad92a319de702c 963 948 2013-07-17T01:28:03Z Gjpotts 16 more scams wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] * Scam Warnings ** [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] ** [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] ** [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] ** [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] ** [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, Surveys - 17th July 2013] [[Category:Technical Info]] 9fc8174ecbc0badf033bdd683353e72de7a51db0 0 4 918 814 2013-05-21T01:14:46Z Offcmngr 6 cyber security week May 2013 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the TIP Wiki [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date 15 November, 2012'''''<br> * Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]] page for Excel, Access and ABC. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] a4c184ed99946ab37f8b4cbf9063e82a7ff6853b 919 918 2013-05-21T01:36:45Z Offcmngr 6 May13 TR for hire wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the TIP Wiki [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Training Room for Hire == '''Item Date 21 May 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date 15 November, 2012'''''<br> * Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]] page for Excel, Access and ABC. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 21fa2acef5fc3502df97fb73518490f678d118a3 920 919 2013-05-21T02:59:05Z Offcmngr 6 /* Training Courses in 2013 */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the TIP Wiki [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Training Room for Hire == '''Item Date 21 May 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013'''''<br> * Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]]. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] a23aeb69741321e876e3eee6d73b02203445132d 922 920 2013-05-30T05:38:41Z Lpb 2 Add item on PCUG Member Survey Update wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the TIP Wiki [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Training Room for Hire == '''Item Date 21 May 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG Member Survey Update == '''''Item Date 30 Apr 2013 '''''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013'''''<br> * Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]]. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] a43e6954f6d638bc00b81b97e33eab0c0890c367 0 172 921 893 2013-05-21T06:15:50Z Offcmngr 6 /* Response to Survey */ blogs wikitext text/x-wiki This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013. <span style="color:red">Please Note: This page is under development, and content will change and evolve!</span> A total of 346 responses were received. A [https://www.pcug.org.au/members/documents/membsurvey2013.pdf summary report] with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available in the members area. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses, is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]]. == Response to Survey == Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following: * note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address * will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney * will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOC on presenting genealogy courses * will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter, & Blogs) use * need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs * note that given the clear older demographic of the group, that we need to address their needs, and that trying to attract a significantly younger membership is likely to be problematic, even disasterous more TBA == Volunteers Needed == * a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen * need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known * need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen * for group to have a future need more users doing the helping! == PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!) Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! == Background == '' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''. The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members. Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable. Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities. For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources. One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available. We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations. The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers. 762000c813a306a7e76eab97561e4e0db9e93bba 923 921 2013-05-30T05:42:22Z Lpb 2 Response items noted at May 2013 committee meeting. wikitext text/x-wiki This page documents the background, reports, analysis, and responses to the survey of PCUG members run in Feb-Mar 2013. A total of 346 responses were received. A [https://www.pcug.org.au/members/documents/membsurvey2013.pdf summary report] with the statistics for the all the multi-choice questions, is available in the members area. A summary of the key points from these, and of the commonly raised issues in the free-text responses, is given [[#PCUG Members Survey Summary|below]]. Details of the background to the survey are provided at the [[#Background|bottom of this page]]. The committee's responses to the survey results are shown [[#Response to Survey|next]]. == Response to Survey == Having reviewed the survey reports and suggestions, the committee has noted the following: * note widely expressed desire to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * agree with view that group should embrace wider range of platforms - need to make our branding indicate this, add training courses & SIGs to address * will look at "kick-starting" Android & iOS SIGs by hosting visiting presenters from peer clubs in Sydney * will look at cooperating with groups such as HAGSOC on presenting genealogy courses * will look at suggestion for some training courses in basic social media (eg Facebook, Twitter, & Blogs) use * need to better advertise & promote existing & future SIGs * note that given the clear older demographic of the group, that we need to address their needs, and that trying to attract a significantly younger membership is likely to be problematic, even disasterous The PCUG main committee has formally noted these response items at its May 2013 meeting, and is listing them in the minutes of that meeting as action items, so that progress will be monitored. Responses are still being reviewed, and we welcome suggestions for further response items the group should consider. == Volunteers Needed == * a number of opportunities have been identified, but need volunteers to make them happen * need to encourage those who indicated they are willing to volunteer, but not already, to make themselves known * need to emphasize that SIG coordinators don't need to be experts on the topic, just willing to make meetings happen * for group to have a future need more users doing the helping! == PCUG Members Survey Summary == === Multi-choice Questions === * membership is valued by a significant majority, and recommeded by many * likely to lose ~38% is close TIP, high, but not as high as feared * 61% of membership is over 65, essentially no younger members * ~30% have used centre / courses / SIGs in mid-term, fewer currently; ~35% have never used these; ~30% may use in future * only 16% likely/will volunteer, need these people to get in touch * see very mixed opinions about the future of the group === Free-text Responses === * many indicated they wanted to retain PCUG email/web (as we intend) * many suggested we embrace a wider range of platforms and open-systems, esp smartphones & tablets; possibly even to point of changing name * mixed opinions suggesting that we need to attract younger members for the continued health of the group BUT others warned this was seen to be very problematic, even disasterous for other groups in similar circumstances * some suggest scaling down services, dropping centre, TIP etc; others would like to see more services at centre, perhaps help with systems * several noted we need to stay community-focused as "users helping users" * several noted they would like a regular newsletter (editor needed!); others commented that given ease of finding info on web, this was no longer so important * some suggested we should offer more training esp for older users, others noted that ACT libraries are funded to provide such services, so why are we? * courses suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), digital photography & photo editing, networking, adv excel, adv access, Win8, linux, genealogy * SIGs suggested: smartphone (likely android & iOS separate), social media, linux (we already have a linux SIG!) Take Home Message: there are a range of things members would like us to do, but unless more volunteers step forward to help do such, they wont happen and the group wont have a future! == Background == '' This background was included in all-member emails sent on 20 Feb & 2 Mar 2013''. The PCUG has reached a turning point in its operations. Many of the original reasons it was formed over 25 years ago have changed, due to technology advances and changes to the computer knowledge and experience of our members and potential members. Furthermore with the gradual rollout of the NBN (National Broadband Network) throughout the local area and greater ISP competition, the PCUG's own TIP will most likely cease being a viable concern as an ISP, and become redundant. On that, please note that we intend to provide at least a year's warning of major changes to TIP's status. We also intend to continue to provide PCUG email addresses and member web areas as currently, but on an external host. It is the Internet access aspect of TIP that will likely not remain viable. Hence it is time to evaluate a future direction for PCUG. We need your involvement to make it happen. The alternatives are simple - to do something and have a chance of continuing to operate, or do nothing - and die. Our declining membership and TIP usage has already created some years of annual financial deficits. This means the group will likely be unable to continue in its current form as early as the end of FY 2015/16. The changing ISP / TIP situation is likely to exacerbate this in future years. Also lack of volunteers is leading to difficulties in maintaining membership services, such as having meetings, training courses and similar activities. For the group to continue into the future we must either significantly reduce operating costs and services or source alternative funding to replace what will be lost through the eventual closure of TIP. To do this, the group needs to more clearly identify what its aims and goals are, how best to meet the needs of its membership and to maximize the use of its resources. One possible solution under investigation by the group is to make greater use of our training facilities - by making them commercially available. We must also accept that our membership is aging, and look at ways to attract younger generations. The PCUG can only continue through the active involvement of its members and volunteers. aa247fde501b5c57e4d360ac50e0e9c73961e6e5 0 112 924 909 2013-06-01T10:10:16Z Offcmngr 6 Updating ABC wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: Wed 24 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 2: Wed 1 May, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 3: Wed 8 May, 2013 10am-midday * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and homework. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 19 June, 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 26 June 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 24 July 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Past Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 1d0674befeb7757abdcff5382e81e3738cc79781 925 924 2013-06-01T10:13:36Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ details update wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: Wed 24 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 2: Wed 1 May, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 3: Wed 8 May, 2013 10am-midday * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 19 June, 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 26 June 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 24 July 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] == Past Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] e1c40aca3deeab4330363aed6916016212f708c5 930 925 2013-06-12T04:02:49Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ dates change wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: Wed 24 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 2: Wed 1 May, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 3: Wed 8 May, 2013 10am-midday * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">Advertised dates for this course have changed!</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 10-12 noon. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 24 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 31 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 07 August 2013 ** Session 7 - Wed 14 August 2013 (Note, this session is an informal additional if needed for clarification of any prior content) *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] * <span style="color:green">Please note this brochure is currently being updated to reflect the restrucutred course. !</span> == Past Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b2e0743ecfe26c4b3986300e1fb573c22b1dd4b1 939 930 2013-06-13T08:56:38Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ session times update wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: Wed 24 April, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 2: Wed 1 May, 2013 10am-midday ** Session 3: Wed 8 May, 2013 10am-midday * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">Advertised dates for this course have changed!</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics. Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers. Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am (for a 10am start) to 1230 pm. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 24 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 31 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 07 August 2013 ** Session 7 - Wed 14 August 2013 (Note, this session is an informal additional if needed for clarification of any prior content) *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] * <span style="color:green">Please note this brochure is currently being updated to reflect the restrucutred course. !</span> == Past Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 306ba956dfdd2b3c303f1141a98faa0191ce72ce 950 939 2013-06-29T01:59:21Z Offcmngr 6 /* Current Courses for 2013 */ update ABC details (& moved excel to the bottom with dates open) wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">Advertised dates for this course have changed!</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who do have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am to 12.15 pm. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 24 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 31 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 07 August 2013 ** Session 7 - Wed 14 August 2013 (Note, this session is an informal additional if needed for clarification of any prior content) *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] * <span style="color:green">Please note this brochure is currently being updated to reflect the restrucutred course. !</span> === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions ** Session 1: ''to be advised'' ** Session 2: ''to be advised'' ** Session 3: ''to be advised'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Past Courses == === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''Trainer:''' Peter Barker<br> *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) == Other Courses (scheduled pending demand) == NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand. Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 95ee9c5f4e9f58f26bd7f8bd578867640f98ca35 951 950 2013-06-29T02:12:32Z Offcmngr 6 Restructured past courses to "Other Courses" wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">Advertised dates for this course have changed!</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who do have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am to 12.15 pm. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 24 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 31 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 07 August 2013 ** Session 7 - Wed 14 August 2013 (Note, this session is an informal additional if needed for clarification of any prior content) *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] * <span style="color:green">Please note this brochure is currently being updated to reflect the restrucutred course. !</span> == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions (last held May 2013) ** Session 1: ''to be advised'' ** Session 2: ''to be advised'' ** Session 3: ''to be advised'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f381ad64908a54d2f617ad52cd079adff7bd5fac 952 951 2013-06-29T07:26:08Z Eleanorw 29 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">Advertised dates for this course have changed!</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who do have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.5hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am to 12.15 pm. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 24 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 31 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 07 August 2013 ** Session 7 - Wed 14 August 2013 (Note, this session is an informal additional if needed for clarification of any prior content) *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] * <span style="color:green">Please note this brochure is currently being updated to reflect the restrucutred course. !</span> == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel for Beginners === *'''Course Title:''' Excel for Beginners<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 3 sessions (last held May 2013) ** Session 1: ''to be advised'' ** Session 2: ''to be advised'' ** Session 3: ''to be advised'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 ($30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 2d43b4b12338d6ab2bb5d5709c8ea131b5980406 0 102 926 488 2013-06-04T04:30:08Z Pblair 10 /* How to Display two adjacent pages on a monitor screen (Win 7) */ wikitext text/x-wiki === How to Display two adjacent pages on a monitor screen (Win 7) === I often work on 2 screens of data or applications displayed side by side on my monitor. For example when I want to follow a set of instructions to modify a faulty application using Windows 7 - better with a wide monitor screen but not essential. In the applications you want to appear on one half of the screen Press the '''Windows (Start) key + Left key or + Right key''' depending on whether you want the window on the left or right of the screen. Then you can work with two windows side by side on the computer. Alternatively if you have two applications on your monitor screen drag one to the left hand side and the other to the right hand side your screen. Each will then appear on each half side of the screen. Jeff A footnote or two: "Snap" (as it is known) works on Win 7 Aero screens, but not on Win 7 Home Basic or Starter. A more fulsome explanation for single and twin screens can be accessed at http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/487-snap-window-side.html 53b453126e2ff12b8e2a6395e63904b58a1dc298 927 926 2013-06-04T04:32:10Z Pblair 10 /* How to Display two adjacent pages on a monitor screen (Win 7) */ wikitext text/x-wiki === How to Display two adjacent pages on a monitor screen (Win 7) === I often work on 2 screens of data or applications displayed side by side on my monitor. For example when I want to follow a set of instructions to modify a faulty application using Windows 7 - better with a wide monitor screen but not essential. In the applications you want to appear on one half of the screen Press the '''Windows (Start) key + Left key or + Right key''' depending on whether you want the window on the left or right of the screen. Then you can work with two windows side by side on the computer. Alternatively if you have two applications on your monitor screen drag one to the left hand side and the other to the right hand side your screen. Each will then appear on each half side of the screen. Jeff '''A footnote or two:''' "Snap" (as it is known) works on Win 7 Aero screens, but not on Win 7 Home Basic or Starter. A more fulsome explanation for single and twin screens can be accessed at http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/487-snap-window-side.html Win 8 doesn't have Aero screens, but Snap is still there. (PB) 9f4a7253c727c6f7f950dff4529c41edc9823258 0 1 931 601 2013-06-12T04:49:16Z Offcmngr 6 Social Media - adding page info wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our Facebook page, how to like it, and contribute. 908c29411f09b5e0f956b0c9c31d340ebaf3cc17 0 176 932 2013-06-12T05:19:29Z Offcmngr 6 page creation and overview wikitext text/x-wiki Social Media is just one more of the ways PCUG is expanding avenues of communication and information sharing. == Facebook == * [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au] Take a look at our site, with contributions appropriate to the spirit of 'Users Helping Users' welcome db1925d8dfdcd42be42c8887ad89438f83e890ab 934 932 2013-06-12T05:48:51Z Offcmngr 6 add image of facebook page wikitext text/x-wiki Social Media is just one more of the ways PCUG is expanding avenues of communication and information sharing. == Facebook == * [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au] Take a look at our site, with contributions appropriate to the spirit of 'Users Helping Users' welcome [[Image:pcug-facebook-page-image.jpg|left|frame|50px|]] 3000e4d2999183664184caf82a452541448d0d5f 936 934 2013-06-12T07:46:29Z Offcmngr 6 fixing image to thumbnail wikitext text/x-wiki Social Media is just one more of the ways PCUG is expanding avenues of communication and information sharing. == Facebook == * [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au] Take a look at our page, with contributions appropriate to the spirit of 'Users Helping Users' welcome. [[Image:pcug-facebook-page-image.jpg|thumb|left|PCUG Facebook Page as seen on a mobile device]] 0f82ab16eadfb646cbb5a680d692f693a0901f24 937 936 2013-06-12T07:48:16Z Offcmngr 6 image position and text aligned wikitext text/x-wiki Social Media is just one more of the ways PCUG is expanding avenues of communication and information sharing. == Facebook == * [[Image:pcug-facebook-page-image.jpg|thumb|left|PCUG Facebook Page as seen on a mobile device]] [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au] * Take a look at our page, with contributions appropriate to the spirit of 'Users Helping Users' welcome. 07392eba51af3880b77848f619d383f0045b1d9f 938 937 2013-06-12T08:29:25Z Offcmngr 6 FB viewing/adding posts wikitext text/x-wiki Social Media is just one more of the ways PCUG is expanding avenues of communication and information sharing. == Facebook == * [[Image:pcug-facebook-page-image.jpg|thumb|left|PCUG Facebook Page as seen on a mobile device]] [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au] * Take a look at our page, with contributions appropriate to the spirit of 'Users Helping Users' welcome. * Anyone may view the posts, but a Facebook account is required to add posts. b5e88890fd521247cbd104744da89953582308d0 6 177 933 2013-06-12T05:39:15Z Offcmngr 6 Image of PCUG's Facebook page wikitext text/x-wiki Image of PCUG's Facebook page eaf1f1c4291d04006b5f58470ec0b4f6378e22f9 0 36 935 670 2013-06-12T06:38:19Z Pblair 10 /* Adding Images */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page aims to provide some initial guidance on how to edit and create pages on a wiki, such as [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG's] [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/ Info Wiki] and [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP Wiki]. == To Start Editing and Creating Wiki Pages == To make changes to any of our wiki pages, you first need to login by selecting the '''[[Special:Userlogin | log in]]''' link at the top right of the page. To ''edit'' an '''existing wiki page''' you select the '''Edit''' tab in the list across the top of the page to access the page editor. Or you can choose to edit just one section of the page by selecting the '''[Edit]''' link on the RHS of each section heading. Please note that some problems have been reported by people using ''Internet Explorer'', so we suggest using another modern browser, such as ''Chrome'', ''Firefox'', ''Safari'' or similar. There are several ways to ''create'' a '''new wiki page'''. The easiest way is to edit an '''existing wiki page''' and insert a link in it to your proposed new page, which will look like <nowiki>[[Name of new page]]</nowiki> As ''Name of new page'' will form part of the URL used to access it, please keep it brief and to the point (a few words) and avoid using any punctuation other than dashes, spaces, underscores or periods. When you save and view this existing page, your newly added <font color=red>Name of new page</font> link will be in red, indicating that this page does not yet exist. Select that link to access the page editor to start adding content to this new page. Every user who logs in to the wiki is given their own user page, with a link like: <nowiki>[[User:loginname]]</nowiki> (where ''loginname'' is the username you logged in with). You can access this page using the ''loginname'' link in the list across the top right of any wiki page. This is a really good place for you to experiment with wiki page content, and to create those initial links for brand new pages. When you are happy with your new pages content, you can copy the link into one of the main navigation pages to make it easily accessible to others. == The Wiki Page Editor == Once you are in the page editor, you can add or change then content of the wiki page. Please note that you '''must not navigate away''' from this page whilst you are making and previewing changes to the page content, or all your changes will be lost. You need to select '''Save page''' to ensure changes are kept permanently. If you do need to view other pages, or follow links whilst editing, please ensure these open in a new tab or new window. You format the page content using wiki markup. This consists of normal characters like asterisks, single quotes or equal signs, included amongst the text being displayed, which have a special function in the wiki, sometimes depending on their position. You can either just type these characters in, or you can highlight text and use the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Edit_toolbar toolbar] buttons across the top of the text editing window. Note that the wiki page editor '''is not''' WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). You need to '''Preview''' your changes first to see what they look like. You should '''always''' preview your changes before saving a page. You should also '''always''' provide a '''Summary''' of your changes (unless you select ''minor edit'' because you're only fixing some typos etc). The summary is included in the history of changes for the page, which helps others know what has been modified. == Adding Content with some Basic Markup == I recommend that you start with a file of ''plain unformatted'' text (created in a text editor on your computer, preferably not Word), along with any images you wish to include, each in a separate file (see next section on [[#Adding Images|Adding Images]]). Start by copying and pasting this unformatted text into the wiki page editor window. You then start applying ''wiki markup'' to this text, either by highlighting and using the editor's markup buttons, or by just typing the required markup characters into the text where needed. This markup may include headers, bold & italic text format, unnumbered & numbered lists, external links to web pages, internal links to other pages on this wiki, and inline images (which is just a special type of internal File: link, see next section on [[#Adding Images|Adding Images]]). Note that once you've defined several headers, a table of contents is automatically generated for the page - you can suppress this, but thats an advanced topic! The following table (adapted from that provided in [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting]) lists some of this most common wiki markup. There is quite a bit more that may also be used, but we recommend you become familiar with this basic markup first. {| style="color:black; background-color:#ffffcc;" cellpadding="10" align="center" class="wikitable" ! style="background:#ABE" | Description ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You type ! style="background:#ABE" width=40% | You get |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | character (inline) formatting – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Italic text||<nowiki>''italic''</nowiki>||''italic'' |- | Bold text||<nowiki>'''bold'''</nowiki>||'''bold''' |- | Escape wiki markup|| &lt;nowiki&gt;no <nowiki>''markup''</nowiki>&lt;/nowiki&gt;||<nowiki>no ''markup''</nowiki> |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | links – ''applies anywhere'' |- | Link to another wiki page||<nowiki>[[Name of page]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page]] |- | ||<nowiki>[[Name of page|Text to display]]</nowiki>||[[Name of page|Text to display]] |- | External link to another website||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page] |- | ||<nowiki>[http://web.site.address/page link text to display]</nowiki>||[http://web.site.address/page link text to display] |- | Show an image<br>(See section on [[#Adding Images|Adding Images]] below)||<nowiki>[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|left|frame|Globe Sculpture!]]</nowiki><br>(with options ''left'' aligned, ''frame'', and final caption)||[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|left|frame|Globe Sculpture!]] |- | Resize an image||<nowiki>[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|right|50px|Globe Sculpture!]]</nowiki><br>(with options: ''right'' aligned, ''50px'' to resize width to 50 pixels)||[[File:Globe sculpture cooma 2012.jpg|right|60px|Globe Sculpture!]] |- ! colspan="3" style="background:#ABE" | section formatting – ''only at the beginning of the line'' |- | Headings of different levels ||<nowiki>== Level 2 ==</nowiki>|| == Level 2 == |- | ||<nowiki>=== Level 3 ===</nowiki>|| === Level 3 === |- | ||<nowiki>==== Level 4 ====</nowiki>|| ==== Level 4 ==== |- | Horizontal rule||<nowiki>----</nowiki>||---- |- | Add a page to a category||<nowiki>[[Category:Category name]]</nowiki><br>(''place near the bottom of a page'')||Shows "Category name" in a bar at bottom when the page is previewed or saved. |- | Bullet list | <pre> * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. </pre> | * Start each line * with an [[Wikipedia:asterisk|asterisk]] (*). ** More asterisks gives deeper *** and deeper levels. |- | Numbered list | <pre> # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. </pre> | # Start each line # with a [[Wikipedia:Number_sign|number sign]] (#). ## More number signs gives deeper ### and deeper ### levels. |- | Preformatted text | <pre> Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. </pre> | Start each line with a space. Text is '''preformatted''' and ''markups'' '''''can''''' be done. |} == Adding Images == Images stored on a wiki server are usually accessed using either a '''File:''' or '''Image:''' prefix in an internal link to the special page used to upload and manage the image file. To include an image in your page, just add an internal link of this form by either typing it in; or by typing the filename, highlighting it, and selecting the ''Embedded File'' tab from those across the top of the editor; so you see: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext]]</nowiki> As with the page name, the filename will form part of the URL used to access it. I recommend you only use alphanumerics and underscore characters in this name, and that the name relate in some way to the wiki page using it. Image file types supported include: gif, jpg, png & svg. You can also include some options to apply to the image when display in your link. Available options include: left, right, center, thumb, frame, frameless. You can include several, each separated by a | character. You can finish with some caption text. So your link might look like: <nowiki>[[File:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> or <nowiki>[[Image:filename.ext|center|frame|a caption for this image]]</nowiki> When you now save this page, the image file links will be red, indicating that these files don't yet exist on the server. If you follow each of your image file links in turn, you access the ''File Upload'' page for that file, where you can browse to it on your computer and then upload it to the wiki. It will then automatically appear in your wiki page when you next refresh your view of it. Handling images can present some interesting challenges - size, shape and positioning. There is a full explanation of the various syntax components at [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Images#Size_and_frame] == Looking at the Page History and Handling Clashes == You can access the '''history''' of all changes made to a particular wiki page by selecting the '''History''' tab in the list across the top of any page. This gives you access to any of the recent previous versions of this page, along with information about who made the change, when, and their summary comment. You can access the content of any of these previous revisions. This can be useful to see how the page content has evolved. It is also useful to resolve [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict conflicting updates]. Because of the way the wiki works, it is possible for two people to start editing the same page at about the same time. When one saves their changes, they wont be included in the copy the other person is working on. So when the second person saves their version, the system may detect that an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edit_conflict edit conflict] has occurred, or some changes may be lost from the current page. But they will be there in the history. On the rare times this occurs, you need to retrieve the changed text, and re-edit the page to merge it in with the other changes. Luckily this doesn't occur very often! == Where to Find More Information == There is a great deal more that can be said about editing wiki pages. But hopefully there's enough here to get you started. For additional guidance on using our wikis, see our [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis|More on Working with Wikis]] guide. For more information about editing pages in wiki's using the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mediawiki Mediawiki] software (which powers Wikipedia, our wiki's, and many others), see the following: * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Formatting Mediawiki Help Formatting] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Editing_pages Mediawiki Help Editing Pages] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Cheatsheet Wikipedia Editing Cheatsheet] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Starting_a_new_page Mediawiki Help Starting a New Page] * [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:Contents Mediawiki Help guide contents for more info] Note that this list can be accessed at any time using the [[Help:Editing|Editing help]] link at the bottom of the wiki page editor on our wikis. -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] -- Jul 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Wiki]] c56b496ba2e65af15a862a2de4943e500ec216d4 0 7 941 907 2013-06-15T21:16:18Z Pblair 10 /* Windows 8 */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 6bac4f11e804e670ddb5658014ab6ecf46ea4ad9 958 941 2013-07-08T07:36:02Z Lpb 2 Add Internet Access section and page link wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 1ecab326d39ad8f889a702d5563af20353f292db 0 178 942 2013-06-15T21:23:36Z Pblair 10 Created page with "== What is Windows 8? == Windows 8 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 …" wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8. If you are still using Windows XP, it's good to plan to move on well before April next year (2014) when Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP, but that still gives you time to watch how Windows 8 beds down. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC Users Group''' b509d4e4f28f68291fa98eb2882046b67ef735c8 943 942 2013-06-15T21:24:29Z Pblair 10 /* I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8. If you are still using Windows XP, it's good to plan to move on well before April next year (2014) when Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP, but that still gives you time to watch how Windows 8 beds down. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' 1ffd1eab1fe739fd09d359d72b3c04550d8eb662 944 943 2013-06-15T21:33:40Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8. If you are still using Windows XP, it's good to plan to move on well before April next year (2014) when Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP, but that still gives you time to watch how Windows 8 beds down. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' [[Category:Technical Info]] a0152417e1916bedd2a93ec2c21b8105334ac749 945 944 2013-06-17T03:06:26Z Pblair 10 /* I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8. If you are still using Windows XP, it's good to plan to move on well before April next year (2014) when Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP, but that still gives you time to watch how Windows 8 beds down. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' == An addition from Canberra == Windows 8 comes with Windows Defender built in. To find the management window, tap the Windows key and type Defender on the screen. Defender incorporates Early Launch Antimalware (ELAM) protection, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Secure Boot, Bootkit Detection and anti-virus protection. Defender will disable itself if you install another antivirus suite. This is to stop multiple (often conflicting) AVs getting underfoot. Updates are vigorous (almost daily). [[Category:Technical Info]] 2560c230d5a58f4ff1b6b1c728ddbcb612f04c8f 946 945 2013-06-17T03:07:25Z Pblair 10 /* An addition from Canberra */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8. If you are still using Windows XP, it's good to plan to move on well before April next year (2014) when Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP, but that still gives you time to watch how Windows 8 beds down. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' == An addition from Canberra == Windows 8 comes with Windows Defender built in. To find the management window, tap the Windows key and type Defender on the screen. Defender incorporates Early Launch Antimalware (ELAM) protection, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Secure Boot, Bootkit Detection and anti-virus protection. Defender will disable itself if you install another antivirus suite. This is to stop multiple (often conflicting) AVs/AMWs getting underfoot. Updates are vigorous (almost daily). [[Category:Technical Info]] 63a021adc6667d567b36adf8ad0676146d5e11a6 947 946 2013-06-18T09:59:08Z Pblair 10 /* An addition from Canberra */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8. If you are still using Windows XP, it's good to plan to move on well before April next year (2014) when Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP, but that still gives you time to watch how Windows 8 beds down. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' == An addition from Canberra about Windows 8 protection inclusion == Windows 8 comes with Windows Defender built in. Defender incorporates Early Launch Antimalware (ELAM) protection, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Secure Boot, Bootkit Detection and anti-virus protection. Defender will disable itself if you install another antivirus suite. This is to stop multiple (often conflicting) AVs/AMWs getting underfoot. To find the management window, tap the Windows key and type Defender on the screen. Updates are vigorous (almost daily). [[Category:Technical Info]] 8aaac8508a7c3d4a78eb6c83f2d56be29010b994 0 173 949 902 2013-06-25T00:40:29Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Gathering information about present and previous members of your family has become quite popular. A whole industry has grown around family research and recording, aided by the internet and a number of commercial interests. Storage methods vary. Many folk are quite happy to have a supply of index cards in a shoe box. Others prefer some computerised method, and there are relatively inexpensive software programs available to fill that role. For many people, that is enough. They may not want to broadcast or even share what they know. But there are others who do want to share - as much to tell others what they have discovered as to seek help in correcting misinformation that might have crept in. The thought begins - could this be shared via the web? And how would you make web pages? One way of achieving this is through commercial channels. You will be offered space to upload your data. At that point, most commercial channels then claim your data as their own, and in giving them the data you give them the right to charge for other people to view it. As well, you might find that you no longer have any editing rights, so any errors or omissions cannot be amended. Among serious researchers, these sites are known for their errors, not their facts. Or you could do it yourself. This has many pluses and a few minuses. The two main pluses are that you are in control - you can add or subtract facts as you discover them (and family trees are never static). And then you can control who has access to your data, if you wish, so you can protect privacy. The main minus is that you have to learn a few new tricks! This takes us into the world of hosting - where you contract with a supplier to sell you some web space and some software to help create useful things in that space. If you would prefer to experiment at home first, you can set up your own server - see the wiki items [http://pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Web_hosting at]. If you want you could also register a domain, so that your hosted site is personalised. But that's not essential. '''The New Tricks''' The online process is simplicity itself. You create a database to hold the data, and you have some scripts to take the data and deliver it to the world in a presentable format. The data and the scripts live in the hosted web space, so there are a few things you will need to learn to help manage them. The data comes from direct entry - you type it into the database - or you import it from the program you use at home on your computer. You don't need to create any web pages - the scripts create them on the fly. And if there is a change in the data - someone dies or a baby is born - you amend the data and the web pages recreate themselves to reflect these changes. If there was one strong reason to use an online system, that is it. '''To Whet Your Appetite''' There are a number of application offerings - the main two being ''webtrees'' and ''The Next Generation'' (TNG). webtrees is at http://www.webtrees.net/index.php/en/, where there is a demo - or a showcase to see how others use it. webtrees is free. TNG is at http://lythgoes.net/genealogy/software.php and again, there are examples. TNG is about AU$30. [[Category:Technical Info]] 09f636214f4ec15ca904d58a6500de5814e2a17e 2 31 953 888 2013-07-02T01:21:43Z Lpb 2 /* Pages Being Worked On */ add link to new "Internet Access Alternatives" page wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ [[Image:lpb.jpg|thumb]] '''Lawrie Brown''' is an Australian computer security guru, science fiction fan, mad keen dancer, and lover of the great outdoor landscape. He is a long term [http://www.tip.net.au/ TIP] admin, and is also currently secretary of the [http://www.pcug.org.au/ PCUG]. See his [http://lpb.canb.auug.org.au/ personal homepage] for more details. == Pages Being Worked On == * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More on Working with Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] * [[Android App Recommendations]] * [[Draft Page]] * [[Member Survey 2013]] == Markup Play Area - Anything Goes! == === Playing with Tables === <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T1 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T2 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T3 ==== * * |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== T4 ==== * * |- |} |} 4e61c781c42eb84e9306ac098af279e2da768d74 0 179 954 2013-07-02T01:49:36Z Lpb 2 Initial page, with content swiped from dialup shutdown announcement wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of ways you can access the Internet: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage. === Mobile Broadband === This service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from. There a several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection by configuring it as a WiFi hotspot to connect devices to + wireless broadband (such as NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband service) for those in suitable service areas A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer dialup access. And there are the obvious ADSL/Cable/NBN == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. 89aad87a76c9343cf02199e821039a0626b2e66b 955 954 2013-07-02T03:22:41Z Lpb 2 More additions to content wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from. There a several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The National Broadband Network (NBN) is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] afdfd40957bb895b992f934295ddc1179005b8d4 956 955 2013-07-08T07:29:27Z Lpb 2 /* Cable */ add some content wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from. There a several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The National Broadband Network (NBN) is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 0ed2e7a4c8ef65a0bc1da334de9d0b31b7590193 957 956 2013-07-08T07:32:02Z Lpb 2 /* National Broadband Network (NBN) */ add wikipedia NBN lik wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from. There a several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 34f2a9be75ae59fa7adf4883fb63225c66b9686f 959 957 2013-07-16T06:32:46Z Prichter 15 wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] d573748bbbfc293a2ffd42d98f93ac96b156c7c0 960 959 2013-07-16T06:36:29Z Prichter 15 /* Cable */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodaphone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers. There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 7f585ac48154ba3f39aec52d56b27b37682335ef 961 960 2013-07-16T23:27:00Z Prichter 15 /* Mobile Broadband */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindfull of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will effect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] b24b2d66bfe46069b4e4cd835c22379d2fd401e0 962 961 2013-07-16T23:33:48Z Prichter 15 /* National Broadband Network (NBN) */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindfull of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will effect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a seperate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] d0f10a267caef4e76f3754f3c757b09c66606e30 964 962 2013-07-17T01:36:16Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. The page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindfull of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will effect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a seperate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 808b20f4d39b158d2adfb71e65f7eb1071929496 965 964 2013-07-17T02:35:45Z Prichter 15 wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindfull of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will effect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a seperate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 8d652401ec37ee734f3703ae69a69b6660272a4d 0 179 966 965 2013-07-17T02:38:57Z Prichter 15 /* Mobile Broadband */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a seperate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] b1cb7dde380304cb8c36e90dd50539535be9a865 967 966 2013-07-17T02:39:26Z Prichter 15 /* National Broadband Network (NBN) */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed intenret acces option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 62c90e614022bf0c47bfd2773f951404e2bd0ca2 968 967 2013-07-17T02:40:17Z Prichter 15 /* Cable */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access Alternatives]: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 73304b316bb9bcd1f22450e9a3772d94cf097288 973 968 2013-07-20T06:43:01Z Cwijones 18 Changed initial hyperlink from "Internet Access Alternatives" to "Internet Access". wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 19c6cb8c7bd9ba5d477434363595c1c3c8d49afa 0 4 969 922 2013-07-17T04:33:21Z Prichter 15 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Training Room for Hire == '''Item Date 21 May 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG Member Survey Update == '''''Item Date 30 Apr 2013 '''''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013'''''<br> * Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]]. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 1c41523174492d108bdcdc79575db072ee5acb1d 996 969 2013-07-29T03:09:39Z Offcmngr 6 PCUG AGM wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item Date 29 July 2013''<br/> * The PCUG AGM will be held in the GCCC Large Conference Rm (Ground Floor) * Nominations for Committee are now open. * Link to full information will follow once supporting web-work is completed. * The Volunteer of the Year will be announced during the evening. * The Meeting will be followed by a presentation TBA. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item Date 21 May 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG Member Survey Update == '''''Item Date 30 Apr 2013 '''''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013'''''<br> * Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]]. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 38c6c181b29f0e9a7980f3b805cea681a1dcae76 0 137 970 963 2013-07-17T07:43:19Z Gjpotts 16 add scam wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] * Scam Warnings ** [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] ** [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] ** [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] ** [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] ** [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] ** [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] [[Category:Technical Info]] 937b197de9a69c295a0ee42334cc8482c0c763a4 971 970 2013-07-18T03:11:19Z Gjpotts 16 mew scam wikitext text/x-wiki For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] * Scam Warnings ** [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] ** [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] ** [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] ** [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] ** [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] ** [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] ** [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] [[Category:Technical Info]] 0218e98c670c08c6396d439df513cd44f4c887b4 999 971 2013-07-30T01:09:13Z Lpb 2 More commentary and copies of current spams wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, PCUG (like most reputable organisations) clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. == More Information == For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- [[Category:Technical Info]] 2184831f3595c9aa6f241819fabfc2352c3cd9b0 1000 999 2013-07-30T01:38:49Z Lpb 2 Add link to Spam page and more commentary wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted at the time of PCUG being placed on blacklists, thus blocking some email delivery for all users when this occurs. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == More Information == For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] b862bb92b7a452fde2483a2ec6728ceeca4e8c7a 1001 1000 2013-07-30T01:42:06Z Lpb 2 /* More Information */ Add link to http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted at the time of PCUG being placed on blacklists, thus blocking some email delivery for all users when this occurs. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == More Information == For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online] * [http://transition.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/littleblackbookofscams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 9459c08f410215ee02d16077da19cf43040b7735 1002 1001 2013-07-31T09:03:45Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted at the time of PCUG being placed on blacklists, thus blocking some email delivery for all users when this occurs. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == More Information == For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online] * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 68601476761f9b01ff2457c64b01361f3f154490 1010 1002 2013-08-04T23:32:37Z Gjpotts 16 /* Scam Warnings */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted at the time of PCUG being placed on blacklists, thus blocking some email delivery for all users when this occurs. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == More Information == For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online] * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails 5th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 2da4f96d08351bd91bea4828efed74f61464ab6e 1011 1010 2013-08-06T02:39:28Z Lpb 2 Add note about scamwatch mailing list, plus tweak wordings wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. == More Information == For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online] * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails 5th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 370d79c6b13ac7b31772c133be71004a731d45e7 1012 1011 2013-08-08T04:23:41Z Gjpotts 16 /* Scam Warnings */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via email, bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. More generally, most reputatable organisations have similar policies, of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. == More Information == For info on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online] * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams Get the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam To report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - For financial scams] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] f590eea5314b5b127a8aafe5985507f80f03f995 0 75 972 529 2013-07-20T00:41:12Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs and is quite affordable. ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) and Mac (at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-macosx.html).. all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. [[Category:Technical Info]] e574610bf66f7ece5e094b3a3f4293398ee716f4 0 6 974 742 2013-07-22T05:39:18Z Lpb 2 Add links to assorted 2013 newsletters wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2013 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q2.pdf Q2], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q3.pdf Q3] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jan13.pdf Jan], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Feb13.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul13.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Advisors13.pdf Advisors]. ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer] (received Nov 2012). == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2013 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jan13.pdf Jan], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb13.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar13.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May13.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun13.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul13.pdf Jul]. Competitions: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Photo_Comp13.pdf Photo] ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Nov12.pdf Nov], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Dec12.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 2c841abe85b52d3b92be116de5f164130eb28cfd 0 50 975 916 2013-07-27T00:36:57Z Lpb 2 /* For General Users */ fix ordering wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] abf6095e94a43d73732656ce7eec296cba87cc02 1005 975 2013-08-01T01:48:21Z Lpb 2 /* For General Users */ add OpenSignal wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] dd8afbba6a1a5c68080a9a11960e5a2b99d5b6d7 8 19 976 410 2013-07-27T01:24:25Z Lpb 2 wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** News and Notices|News and Notices ** Activities and Opportunities|Activities/Opportunities ** Newsletters|Newsletters ** Technical Info|Technical Info ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo|PCUG Mailing Lists ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** randompage-url|Feeling Lucky? ** helppage|Wiki Help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 651d00ae76e9ef1b1d5f50b5261572f8668302ef 977 976 2013-07-27T01:25:46Z Lpb 2 Remove "Feeling Lucky?" as just not needed, after adding link to Mailing Lists wikitext text/x-wiki * navigation ** mainpage|mainpage-description ** News and Notices|News and Notices ** Activities and Opportunities|Activities/Opportunities ** Newsletters|Newsletters ** Technical Info|Technical Info ** http://www.pcug.org.au|PCUG Home ** http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/|PCUG Calendar ** https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo|PCUG Mailing Lists ** http://www.tip.net.au|TIP Wiki ** recentchanges-url|recentchanges ** helppage|Wiki Help * SEARCH * TOOLBOX * LANGUAGES 4b8364d0ae9c10a44f6e2b31e7c5a413c1416e36 0 1 978 931 2013-07-27T01:28:05Z Lpb 2 /* Social Media */ add link to facebook page wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. Please note that a different [[Wiki_Skins|skin]] is used when this wiki is viewed from a mobile device. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. 5954b63e272e7f324b829f1a9e352313c62d44fd 979 978 2013-07-27T01:29:48Z Lpb 2 /* Members Informing Members */ add link to facebook page and remove note mobile skins (moved to about page) wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. 66cebe072082e89516b36a9c715226ca7673bd55 1008 979 2013-08-02T04:15:13Z Offcmngr 6 add SCAMs page link and brief wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Scams]] == Scams, especially via email, but also via social media, are an ongoing problem and constantly changing. This page includes a variety of helpful information and resources. == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. c308f4f2471484862d937cbeaa636464d5db366c 6 180 980 2013-07-27T02:52:55Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 7 981 958 2013-07-28T22:54:18Z Pblair 10 /* Android */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 081469c05a2c22c4afac4b320ad90e68c7682bcd 1003 981 2013-08-01T01:36:22Z Lpb 2 /* Android */ add link to new getting started page wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== Email ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 8dae82e2cb4063baa52f565450d316cd442b8eb6 1015 1003 2013-08-08T23:07:49Z Pblair 10 /* Email */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Spam and scans: unwanted e-mail]] * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e98ed0f6ff2834efb4cb9331f753cdb4c7fa881f 0 181 982 2013-07-28T22:54:37Z Pblair 10 Created page with " This is a placeholder.... Paul" wikitext text/x-wiki This is a placeholder.... Paul 83afb0e66f6d5ddf36438957558a6382bea8c032 983 982 2013-07-28T22:55:27Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a placeholder.... Paul [[Category:Technical Info]] 92f2752b2e6bb87abe60e1b80557c2d61f1c00a6 990 983 2013-07-29T00:26:47Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red">This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need adaption to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki.</span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac? Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] e17abd881261cd629402c59bbf4ec2dcce3665b9 992 990 2013-07-29T00:27:59Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need adaption to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac? Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] e34638fa5ff077bcd5944fc2d1a54d118265d03b 993 992 2013-07-29T00:29:01Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac? Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] e63d28a3615675663c5ab1e097cb4512608b7531 994 993 2013-07-29T01:03:40Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. ''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac? Does anyone know'' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] 835182d25a4497e59068dbccf38a0976c1b0fe60 995 994 2013-07-29T01:04:19Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] 2783eace8e72de5f06f9495f858afae93cd50899 1009 995 2013-08-03T00:48:09Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] d7ee9145f009a505c3011b0f5f5b81ff95f2dd5f 6 182 984 2013-07-29T00:22:58Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 183 985 2013-07-29T00:23:16Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 184 986 2013-07-29T00:23:26Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 185 987 2013-07-29T00:23:38Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 186 988 2013-07-29T00:23:49Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 187 989 2013-07-29T00:23:59Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 188 991 2013-07-29T00:27:24Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 112 997 952 2013-07-29T03:42:51Z Offcmngr 6 18/9/2013 RQ Intro to spreadsheets wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">Advertised dates for this course have changed!</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who do have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.5hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am to 12.15 pm. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 24 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 31 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 07 August 2013 ** Session 7 - Wed 14 August 2013 (Note, this session is an informal additional if needed for clarification of any prior content) *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] * <span style="color:green">Please note this brochure is currently being updated to reflect the restrucutred course. !</span> == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 159fca0a2349303a748f95b3f04fcffbbafd73f4 0 131 998 915 2013-07-29T06:46:20Z Gjpotts 16 add spam alert wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Spam == As defined in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different unsolicitied communications. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive:- # Without a subject; # From a sender you do not know or recognize; # Offering something too good (even a $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true; # Without greeting you by name; # Containing poor written English; # And have a file.zip attachment; # Containing a link, and when you hover over it with a mouse it does not display a trustworthy webpage; # Asking for your personal details. Banks *never* do this == Spam Email Warning Alerts == * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2160328&a=38192&k=5df71e7 Royal Baby Phishing E-mails] == What Can You Do About Email Spam? == Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult (it wouldn't be the major concern that it is were this not so), you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam to yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept '''any''' form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you take to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. # make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's emails. Please note that whilst [http://www.tip.net.au/ PCUG/TIP] utilize some anti-spam measures, we '''do not''' employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and admin resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Spam TIP Wiki Spam page]. If these are not sufficient for your requirements, then you need to use some of the following alternatives. # make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your email client. Many email clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns what you regard as spam (or not). With sufficient training, this can help classify emails fairly well, as you wish. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or [https://www.tip.net.au/webmail/ webmail] to access your email. # [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email_Forwarding Forward your Email] to another ISP, or to a large web-email provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced email filters, and then access and read your email from this site. == Further Information == Sites you can visit to find out more about "spam" are:- * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] * [https://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs20-spam.htm Anti-Spam Consumer Resources and Information] * [http://www.spamtrackers.eu/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Spamtrackers SpamWiki] == See Also == * [[Scams]] - for details on scams, which may well be spread by spam [[Category:Technical Info]] 716bbfc62cff3478f55532b23c8dcd676984feab 0 189 1004 2013-08-01T01:40:29Z Lpb 2 Initial content wikitext text/x-wiki This page is for members to suggest common hints and tips they find useful, as well as supplying links to great resources on the net. == Useful References == * TBA [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b4a0f0822c18db28c411c2fe51f7cf8a4fb465a2 1006 1004 2013-08-01T01:51:49Z Lpb 2 add howto geek link wikitext text/x-wiki This page is for members to suggest common hints and tips they find useful, as well as supplying links to great resources on the net. == Useful References == * [http://www.howtogeek.com/163624/welcome-to-android-a-beginners-guide-to-getting-started-with-android/ A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started With Android (How-To Geek) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 55f612e8d7b6dbb00ce032b3225e6996c99fb48c 1007 1006 2013-08-01T01:54:10Z Lpb 2 typo ion link wikitext text/x-wiki This page is for members to suggest common hints and tips they find useful, as well as supplying links to great resources on the net. == Useful References == * [http://www.howtogeek.com/163624/welcome-to-android-a-beginners-guide-to-getting-started-with-android/ A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started With Android (How-To Geek)] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 390f46de3f862cb120066d2c96402873f9ec3ff6 6 190 1013 2013-08-08T23:06:24Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 191 1014 2013-08-08T23:06:41Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 192 1016 2013-08-08T23:08:02Z Pblair 10 Created page with " Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later r…" wikitext text/x-wiki Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret. If you want a quick list of things to look for, go straight to [[#Spam]] == But first... == Let's dispel a myth. Provided that your e-mail client is not configured to download linked images with incoming mail, no e-mail that lands in your Inbox is ''<b>instantly</b>'' harmful. It is what you do with it that can lead to problems. But your careful attention to detail will help you avoid them. == Scams == Scams, especially via e-mail but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a high degree of awareness about them and their potential to be harmful. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly states that we will never ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via e-mail. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. A few PCUG members have fallen for such scams. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM e-mails, which resulted in PCUG being placed on blacklists for a time, thus blocking some e-mail delivery for all users. So please exercise caution, as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == References == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * Stay Smart Online,[http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/] the Australian government site, or report a scam [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * ACCC Scamwatch free book [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams] or report a scam to them [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * Financial scams recorded by ASIC [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/] * AFP information [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx] * Wikipedia's lists [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams] (as at 8 Aug 2013) == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. == Spam == Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive: * without a subject * from a sender you do not know or recognize * offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true * without greeting you by name * containing poorly written English or typos * having a file attachment of any kind * containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context * containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you * asking for your personal details. Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you". '''When in doubt, delete.''' While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you. == What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? == * Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. * Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try: ** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail. ** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site. ** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails. == A short lesson in looking around for yourself... == Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook: [[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]] Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file. By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail. ('''Tell how to get them in assorted clients''') [[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]] This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note... # The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems <b>not</b> to fit with what Google would use. # "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because... # Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells. # These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it. # Another 'hop' # TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place. That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here. == Finding headers == Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then: * In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel * In Thunderbird: # For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu # To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All'' * In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express: # Highlight the message of interest # Right click on the message # Select ''Properties'' in the context menu # Switch to the ''Details'' tab * In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers'' * In Forte Agent, tap the H key * In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H * In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens. * In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers'' == Odd things == Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail. Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address. E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry. c6bc7c215331993c9321dba2ac6efbf750a1fc25 1017 1016 2013-08-08T23:08:55Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret. If you want a quick list of things to look for, go straight to [[#Spam]] == But first... == Let's dispel a myth. Provided that your e-mail client is not configured to download linked images with incoming mail, no e-mail that lands in your Inbox is ''<b>instantly</b>'' harmful. It is what you do with it that can lead to problems. But your careful attention to detail will help you avoid them. == Scams == Scams, especially via e-mail but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a high degree of awareness about them and their potential to be harmful. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly states that we will never ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via e-mail. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. A few PCUG members have fallen for such scams. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM e-mails, which resulted in PCUG being placed on blacklists for a time, thus blocking some e-mail delivery for all users. So please exercise caution, as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == References == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * Stay Smart Online,[http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/] the Australian government site, or report a scam [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * ACCC Scamwatch free book [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams] or report a scam to them [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * Financial scams recorded by ASIC [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/] * AFP information [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx] * Wikipedia's lists [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams] (as at 8 Aug 2013) == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. == Spam == Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive: * without a subject * from a sender you do not know or recognize * offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true * without greeting you by name * containing poorly written English or typos * having a file attachment of any kind * containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context * containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you * asking for your personal details. Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you". '''When in doubt, delete.''' While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you. == What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? == * Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. * Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try: ** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail. ** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site. ** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails. == A short lesson in looking around for yourself... == Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook: [[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]] Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file. By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail. ('''Tell how to get them in assorted clients''') [[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]] This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note... # The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems <b>not</b> to fit with what Google would use. # "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because... # Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells. # These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it. # Another 'hop' # TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place. That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here. == Finding headers == Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then: * In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel * In Thunderbird: # For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu # To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All'' * In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express: # Highlight the message of interest # Right click on the message # Select ''Properties'' in the context menu # Switch to the ''Details'' tab * In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers'' * In Forte Agent, tap the H key * In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H * In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens. * In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers'' == Odd things == Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail. Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address. E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry. [[Category:Technical Info]] f95f47f2e41b4c7460f94a0e338db730d2d11ee6 0 7 1018 1015 2013-08-08T23:09:11Z Pblair 10 /* E-mail */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Spam and scans: unwanted e-mail]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] bd3d3154ab5bfbe2bc92cd55af86bb94ac3f2ba2 1019 1018 2013-08-08T23:09:53Z Pblair 10 /* E-mail */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Spam and scams: unwanted e-mail]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 04845838be78b0cd60d9ed16bb2b1eeaf35babd1 1024 1019 2013-08-13T20:50:51Z Pblair 10 /* E-mail */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 562b2e5300212e52c2f7440468935a2554996062 1025 1024 2013-08-13T22:40:29Z Pblair 10 /* E-mail */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Spam]] * [[Scams]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] fd444f7543c3e4a49a559328f1c1950652925f3b 1026 1025 2013-08-14T00:13:04Z Lpb 2 /* E-mail */ flip order of Scams & Spam wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] df8253cdb1caaa303ae6a060c841b5e00ad34154 1042 1026 2013-08-23T03:35:31Z Lpb 2 /* E-mail */ Add link to Handling Email SPAM wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 438c4958279ee97593379dafdc0a3ca3f51a246e 1046 1042 2013-08-31T23:28:49Z Rpeters 14 /* Gateway_Router */added "Choice" section to provide preliminary answer to common question "what router do I need for "Cable"/ADSL/3G Interenet ? wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 39aa0fae84b4e2ba90a7033dad99965f128c7399 1053 1046 2013-09-01T02:07:55Z Rpeters 14 /* Hardware */added Telephone section - mainly to counter confusion amongst users re TransACT "cable", NBN etc wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 1e413fab67e3166f5a40874f55577e691316c866 1061 1053 2013-09-01T09:23:42Z Pblair 10 /* E-mail */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] f939411ca9c9d5dcd8125da1208c7e01aa3696c3 0 193 1020 2013-08-08T23:10:38Z Pblair 10 Created page with " Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later r…" wikitext text/x-wiki Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret. If you want a quick list of things to look for, go straight to [[#Spam]] == But first... == Let's dispel a myth. Provided that your e-mail client is not configured to download linked images with incoming mail, no e-mail that lands in your Inbox is ''<b>instantly</b>'' harmful. It is what you do with it that can lead to problems. But your careful attention to detail will help you avoid them. == Scams == Scams, especially via e-mail but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a high degree of awareness about them and their potential to be harmful. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly states that we will never ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via e-mail. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. A few PCUG members have fallen for such scams. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM e-mails, which resulted in PCUG being placed on blacklists for a time, thus blocking some e-mail delivery for all users. So please exercise caution, as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == References == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * Stay Smart Online,[http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/] the Australian government site, or report a scam [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * ACCC Scamwatch free book [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams] or report a scam to them [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * Financial scams recorded by ASIC [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/] * AFP information [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx] * Wikipedia's lists [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams] (as at 8 Aug 2013) == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. == Spam == Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive: * without a subject * from a sender you do not know or recognize * offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true * without greeting you by name * containing poorly written English or typos * having a file attachment of any kind * containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context * containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you * asking for your personal details. Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you". '''When in doubt, delete.''' While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you. == What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? == * Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. * Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try: ** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail. ** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site. ** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails. == A short lesson in looking around for yourself... == Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook: [[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]] Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file. By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail. ('''Tell how to get them in assorted clients''') [[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]] This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note... # The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems <b>not</b> to fit with what Google would use. # "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because... # Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells. # These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it. # Another 'hop' # TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place. That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here. == Finding headers == Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then: * In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel * In Thunderbird: # For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu # To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All'' * In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express: # Highlight the message of interest # Right click on the message # Select ''Properties'' in the context menu # Switch to the ''Details'' tab * In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers'' * In Forte Agent, tap the H key * In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H * In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens. * In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers'' == Odd things == Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail. Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address. E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry. c6bc7c215331993c9321dba2ac6efbf750a1fc25 1021 1020 2013-08-08T23:11:17Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret. If you want a quick list of things to look for, go straight to [[#Spam]] == But first... == Let's dispel a myth. Provided that your e-mail client is not configured to download linked images with incoming mail, no e-mail that lands in your Inbox is ''<b>instantly</b>'' harmful. It is what you do with it that can lead to problems. But your careful attention to detail will help you avoid them. == Scams == Scams, especially via e-mail but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a high degree of awareness about them and their potential to be harmful. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly states that we will never ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via e-mail. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. A few PCUG members have fallen for such scams. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM e-mails, which resulted in PCUG being placed on blacklists for a time, thus blocking some e-mail delivery for all users. So please exercise caution, as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == References == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * Stay Smart Online,[http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/] the Australian government site, or report a scam [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * ACCC Scamwatch free book [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams] or report a scam to them [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * Financial scams recorded by ASIC [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/] * AFP information [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx] * Wikipedia's lists [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams] (as at 8 Aug 2013) == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. == Spam == Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive: * without a subject * from a sender you do not know or recognize * offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true * without greeting you by name * containing poorly written English or typos * having a file attachment of any kind * containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context * containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you * asking for your personal details. Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you". '''When in doubt, delete.''' While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you. == What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? == * Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. * Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try: ** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail. ** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site. ** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails. == A short lesson in looking around for yourself... == Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook: [[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]] Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file. By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail. ('''Tell how to get them in assorted clients''') [[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]] This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note... # The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems <b>not</b> to fit with what Google would use. # "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because... # Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells. # These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it. # Another 'hop' # TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place. That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here. == Finding headers == Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then: * In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel * In Thunderbird: # For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu # To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All'' * In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express: # Highlight the message of interest # Right click on the message # Select ''Properties'' in the context menu # Switch to the ''Details'' tab * In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers'' * In Forte Agent, tap the H key * In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H * In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens. * In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers'' == Odd things == Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail. Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address. E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry. [[Category:Technical Info]] 258dd6c8e0dc850256f7ce28a85e109ff368de92 1022 1021 2013-08-09T02:59:37Z Pblair 10 /* A short lesson in looking around for yourself... */ wikitext text/x-wiki Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret. If you want a quick list of things to look for, go straight to [[#Spam]] == But first... == Let's dispel a myth. Provided that your e-mail client is not configured to download linked images with incoming mail, no e-mail that lands in your Inbox is ''<b>instantly</b>'' harmful. It is what you do with it that can lead to problems. But your careful attention to detail will help you avoid them. == Scams == Scams, especially via e-mail but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a high degree of awareness about them and their potential to be harmful. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly states that we will never ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via e-mail. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. A few PCUG members have fallen for such scams. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM e-mails, which resulted in PCUG being placed on blacklists for a time, thus blocking some e-mail delivery for all users. So please exercise caution, as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == References == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * Stay Smart Online,[http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/] the Australian government site, or report a scam [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * ACCC Scamwatch free book [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams] or report a scam to them [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * Financial scams recorded by ASIC [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/] * AFP information [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx] * Wikipedia's lists [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams] (as at 8 Aug 2013) == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. == Spam == Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive: * without a subject * from a sender you do not know or recognize * offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true * without greeting you by name * containing poorly written English or typos * having a file attachment of any kind * containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context * containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you * asking for your personal details. Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you". '''When in doubt, delete.''' While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you. == What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? == * Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. * Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try: ** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail. ** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site. ** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails. == A short lesson in looking around for yourself... == Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook: [[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]] Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file. By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail. [[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]] This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note... # The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems <b>not</b> to fit with what Google would use. # "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because... # Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells. # These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it. # Another 'hop' # TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place. That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here. == Finding headers == Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then: * In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel * In Thunderbird: # For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu # To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All'' * In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express: # Highlight the message of interest # Right click on the message # Select ''Properties'' in the context menu # Switch to the ''Details'' tab * In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers'' * In Forte Agent, tap the H key * In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H * In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens. * In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers'' == Odd things == Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail. Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address. E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry. [[Category:Technical Info]] 61376c57fc0e21c32014bab5c3f19451db9b632c 1039 1022 2013-08-23T03:33:00Z Lpb 2 moved [[Spam and scams: unwanted e-mail]] to [[Handling Email SPAM]]:&#32;separating out info on how to handle spam/scams from existing Spam and Scams pages wikitext text/x-wiki Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret. If you want a quick list of things to look for, go straight to [[#Spam]] == But first... == Let's dispel a myth. Provided that your e-mail client is not configured to download linked images with incoming mail, no e-mail that lands in your Inbox is ''<b>instantly</b>'' harmful. It is what you do with it that can lead to problems. But your careful attention to detail will help you avoid them. == Scams == Scams, especially via e-mail but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a high degree of awareness about them and their potential to be harmful. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly states that we will never ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via e-mail. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. A few PCUG members have fallen for such scams. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM e-mails, which resulted in PCUG being placed on blacklists for a time, thus blocking some e-mail delivery for all users. So please exercise caution, as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! == References == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * Stay Smart Online,[http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/] the Australian government site, or report a scam [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * ACCC Scamwatch free book [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams] or report a scam to them [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam] * Financial scams recorded by ASIC [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/] * AFP information [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx] * Wikipedia's lists [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams] (as at 8 Aug 2013) == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. == Spam == Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive: * without a subject * from a sender you do not know or recognize * offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true * without greeting you by name * containing poorly written English or typos * having a file attachment of any kind * containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context * containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you * asking for your personal details. Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you". '''When in doubt, delete.''' While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you. == What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? == * Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. * Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try: ** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail. ** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site. ** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails. == A short lesson in looking around for yourself... == Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook: [[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]] Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file. By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail. [[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]] This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note... # The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems <b>not</b> to fit with what Google would use. # "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because... # Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells. # These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it. # Another 'hop' # TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place. That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here. == Finding headers == Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then: * In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel * In Thunderbird: # For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu # To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All'' * In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express: # Highlight the message of interest # Right click on the message # Select ''Properties'' in the context menu # Switch to the ''Details'' tab * In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers'' * In Forte Agent, tap the H key * In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H * In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens. * In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers'' == Odd things == Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail. Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address. E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry. [[Category:Technical Info]] 61376c57fc0e21c32014bab5c3f19451db9b632c 1041 1039 2013-08-23T03:34:54Z Lpb 2 Prune out definition details that belong in Scams/Spam pages to just Handling Email SPAM details wikitext text/x-wiki Some call them spam. Others call them scams. But they both amount to the same thing: unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret. == What is Spam == Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive: * without a subject * from a sender you do not know or recognize * offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true * without greeting you by name * containing poorly written English or typos * having a file attachment of any kind * containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context * containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you * asking for your personal details. Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you". '''When in doubt, delete.''' While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you. == What Can You Do About E-mail Spam? == * Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult, you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam on yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept any form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you make to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. * Make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's e-mails. However, please note that whilst PCUG/TIP utilize some anti-spam measures, we do not employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and administrative resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the TIP Wiki Spam page. Or you can try: ** Make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your e-mail client. Many e-mail clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns your selection process. With sufficient training, this can help classify e-mails fairly well. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or webmail to access your e-mail. ** Forward your e-mail to another ISP, or to a large web e-mail provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced e-mail filters, and then access and read your e-mail from this site. ** Use something like Mailwasher...it can stop problem e-mails even getting to you. you will need to 'train' it for what you like and don't, to avoid blocking genuine e-mails. == A short lesson in looking around for yourself... == Here's a recent e-mail that came via Outlook: [[File:pcug_sc_1.jpg|center|Fig. 1]] Things looked pretty normal at first, allowing for the small typo. A Verizon user (Verizon is a large communication company) had created a Google document, and wanted to share it. But then I passed the mouse pointer over the link, and the popup box told me that it would take me to 'latinamericainvest.com' where the reader would be connected to a Wordpress file. By now my suspicions were raised, so I went to look at the headers of the e-mail. [[File:pcug_sc_2.jpg|center|Fig. 2]] This looked more useful. The rule here is to read up from the last line. Now, the things to note... # The e-mail, purporting to come from Google, was written with Outlook Express - Microsoft's free (and deprecated) e-mail client. That certainly seems <b>not</b> to fit with what Google would use. # "From" looks like the topmost line, and is just meaningless and is often a fudge because... # Here is where any reply will go. It might be real, but there's no guarantee of that. But look and see if it matches the supposed sender - a mismatch should ring bells. # These are the transmission 'hops', where the file gets passed along the chain to you. Not a lot of interest, but if you want to know where point 3. originated, put the URL (in this case 216.59.19.48) into something like http://whois.domaintools.com/ you will find it. # Another 'hop' # TIP found this came from an source unknown to it, so requested a resend. This is 'greylisting' which TIP has in place. That's not the sum total of what you might find in a header. But if you do read one, break it up into parts and try to see just what has been delivered to you. If you find anything worth sharing, please post it here. == Finding headers == Open the e-mail you want to inspect, then: * In Microsoft Office Outlook, looks for ''Tags'' on the ribbon, and click the small downpointing arrow in the lower right-hand corner of the Tags panel * In Thunderbird: # For the open e-mail, select ''View Source'' from the ''Other Actions'' menu # To reveal all headers that you open subsequently, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''Headers'' then tick ''All'' * In Windows Mail, Live Mail and Outlook Express: # Highlight the message of interest # Right click on the message # Select ''Properties'' in the context menu # Switch to the ''Details'' tab * In Evolution, click on ''View'' in the top menu, then ''All Message Headers'' * In Forte Agent, tap the H key * In Claws-Mail, do Ctrl+H * In Pegasus Mail, right-click on the message and select ''Message headers...'' from the window that opens. * In Mac Mail, click ''View'', select ''Message/All Headers'' == Odd things == Google's Gmail service omits the sender IP address information from all headers. Instead, only the IP address of Gmail's mail server is shown in Received: from. This means it is impossible to find a sender's true IP address in a received Gmail. Microsoft's Hotmail service provides an extended header line called "X-Originating-IP" that contains the sender's actual IP address. E-mails from Yahoo contain the sender's IP address in the last Received: entry. [[Category:Technical Info]] be7ea21f65af90a10a35c10e314ce0e54fe27cd9 0 75 1023 972 2013-08-10T02:43:59Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs and is quite affordable. ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) and Mac (at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-macosx.html).. all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. One last cautionary thing. The server that you set up at home is not connected to the internet, so, to that extent, it is private. But if the computer that it is installed on is connected to the internet, there could be a way for someone to see what you are doing. The systems noted above provide information about preserving privacy. Please read their instructions and take the necessary precautions. [[Category:Technical Info]] 8077db839257b60029ffe5786d76f8a495598402 0 50 1027 1005 2013-08-19T03:00:51Z Nab 33 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes] - Safe Notes is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Useful for keeping track of your passwords. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 3ba0fc855728f2508b62f2cbec29125455fddecd 1028 1027 2013-08-19T03:03:34Z Nab 33 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes] - Safe Notes is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Useful for keeping track of your passwords. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 84f6f10b122a6cda019a28ea1acd2b45a1ed3550 1029 1028 2013-08-19T03:03:58Z Nab 33 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes - Safe Notes is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Useful for keeping track of your passwords. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 5ea6440cf511afa802cb2c5954c48a75edb18748 1030 1029 2013-08-19T03:04:35Z Nab 33 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes SafeNotes] - Safe Notes is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Useful for keeping track of your passwords. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] c90ad0d7d03861b063d0d8db8de6e068927dba8c 1031 1030 2013-08-19T03:05:41Z Nab 33 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes SafeNotes] -- is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Keeping track of your passwords securely. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 7cda4a841a10923de9dc469f77e70744659cfe1a 1032 1031 2013-08-19T03:07:41Z Nab 33 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes SafeNotes] -- is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Keep track of your passwords securely. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 9af703f23f55a1dce64efe5d9214150d751b4533 1033 1032 2013-08-19T03:12:15Z Nab 33 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flightradar24free Flightradar] -- shows real time location and route of commercial aircraft. Track the progress of your visitors. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes SafeNotes] -- is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Keep track of your passwords securely. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 1dbe1808e3620da35882be9c99e6b3828d5a0c8e 1034 1033 2013-08-19T03:17:49Z Nab 33 /* Strictly for Geeks */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flightradar24free Flightradar] -- shows real time location and route of commercial aircraft. Track the progress of your visitors. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes SafeNotes] -- is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Keep track of your passwords securely. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smarterdroid.wififiletransfer WiFiFileTransfer] - lets you upload and download files to/from your phone or tablet over a wireless connection. Easy-to-use web interface, no USB cable needed. [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 2708e4c111066a839fcee6e12ccbb4fb7dba82c8 1035 1034 2013-08-19T03:18:41Z Nab 33 /* Strictly for Geeks */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flightradar24free Flightradar] -- shows real time location and route of commercial aircraft. Track the progress of your visitors. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes SafeNotes] -- is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Keep track of your passwords securely. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smarterdroid.wififiletransfer WiFiFileTransfer] - lets you upload and download files to/from your phone or tablet over a wireless connection. Easy-to-use web interface, no USB cable needed. [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 4700be72c4a9f00b59df62c0843277969b410d0b 1036 1035 2013-08-19T03:24:22Z Nab 33 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for Android apps that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. All of these are available from the official Google Play Store unless noted otherwise. == For General Users == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.aldiko.android Aldiko] - highly recommended e-book reader (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.zxing.client.android Barcode Scanner] - scan bar codes and QR codes (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImNvbS5zb2NpYWxubW9iaWxlLmRpY3RhcHBzLm5vdGVwYWQuY29sb3Iubm90ZSJd ColorNote] - checklist app useful for such things as grocery lists (free) -- / April 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.geometerplus.zlibrary.ui.android FBReader] - another lean, fast, highly customizable, e-book reader. Also available for many other platforms, see [http://www.fbreader.org/ www.fbreader.org] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.flightradar24free Flightradar] -- shows real time location and route of commercial aircraft. Track the progress of your visitors. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eclipsim.gpsstatus2 GPS Status] - shows current status when you enable GPS (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lbe.security.lite LBE Privacy Guard] - network monitor and firewall for android (nb. provides basic network monitoring on standard devices, requires jailbreak to provide advanced firewall features) (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.staircase3.opensignal OpenSignal] - maps cellular coverage, find Wi-Fi hotspots, test and improve your reception & get faster data (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.orux.oruxmaps OruxMaps] - a really nice map navigation app that works with both online network accessed, and offline cached maps, eg. for bushwalking. Use in conjunction with [http://mobac.sourceforge.net Mobac] (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isbell.ben.safenotes SafeNotes] -- is a notepad application that stores your notes in a secure manner using 128 bit encryption and provides quick & easy access using a simple pin number or a secret question/answer (can be used like a password instead of pin). Keep track of your passwords securely. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.zwanoo.android.speedtest Speed Test] -- for easy, one-tap connection testing. Check your wifi download and upload speeds. -- [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 == Getting Technical == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.farproc.wifi.analyzer Wifi Analyzer] - shows Wi-Fi channels around you to help find a less crowded channel for your wireless router (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 == Strictly for Geeks == * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.connectbot ConnectBot] - ssh client to provide a secure remote terminal connections to other computers (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.eolwral.osmonitor OS Monitor] - system monitoring tools like top, vmstat, netstat for your device (free) -- [[User:Lpb|Lawrie]] / Aug 2012 * [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smarterdroid.wififiletransfer WiFiFileTransfer] - lets you upload and download files to/from your phone or tablet over a wireless connection. Easy-to-use web interface, no USB cable needed. [[User:nab|Norm]] / Aug 2013 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] f075ac04c4b5310792f64b9cb4a7b34b2cf21b36 0 137 1037 1012 2013-08-23T03:24:35Z Lpb 2 Copy in some of Paul's changes wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 90c745ed4fa3699b6bd01e478ad1e727b288d78e 1052 1037 2013-09-01T01:47:13Z Prichter 15 Septmber "Network Manager" scam wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com Do not open the PDF attachment! From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 62102c8d512af458da37b63d4064e10c459e86e2 0 131 1038 998 2013-08-23T03:31:56Z Lpb 2 Add link to Scams page, some refs & a bit from Paul's contribution wikitext text/x-wiki Unwanted e-mail, some with the potential to fool you into taking an action you might later regret, are an unfortunate fact of life in the electronic world of the Internet. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness == What is Spam == Wikipedia defines spam: "Spam is the use of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited bulk messages, especially advertising, indiscriminately" The term "spam" covers many different styles of unsolicited communication. Email Spam is also often used to spread [[Scams]]. You should be suspicious of e-mails, texts, or social media messages that arrive: * without a subject * from a sender you do not know or recognize * offering something too good (even $20 or $50 for a survey) to be true * without greeting you by name * containing poorly written English or typos * having a file attachment of any kind * containing a link that, when you hover over it with a mouse, displays a link that seems inappropriate in the context * containing a link inviting you click - unless you have a very good idea where it will lead you * asking for your personal details. Also be suspicious where the "To:" list is "undisclosed recipients" but the e-mail attempts familiarity - "with the same last name as you". '''When in doubt, delete.''' While this page is about e-mails, don't lose sight of spam that comes from web browsing. Offers of 'free' toolbars, registry cleaners, things to brighten your teeth or reduce flatulence are to be avoided because the offerings are often not what they seem. These often come when you are installing a new app or utility. We tend to fly through such installs, and may regret this later on. Keep your wits about you. == Spam Email Warning Alerts == Some selected Spam email warnings we believe are of relevance to our members include: * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2160328&a=38192&k=5df71e7 Royal Baby Phishing E-mails] == Things You Can Do To Try and Reduce Email Spam == Given that preventing Spam is extremely difficult (it wouldn't be the major concern that it is were this not so), you can take steps to try and reduce the impact of spam to yourself. However nothing you do can stop it completely (unless you simply decide not to accept '''any''' form of electronic communication). Also note that the more effort you take to block spam, the more likely it is that you will also block a fraction of legitimate messages to yourself. # make use of your ISP's anti-spam measures. Different ISPs employ varying amounts of spam counter-measures, depending on their resources and philosophy on to what extent they believe in "intercepting/analyzing" their user's emails. Please note that whilst [http://www.tip.net.au/ PCUG/TIP] utilize some anti-spam measures, we '''do not''' employ spam filters that scan the message content, as this requires greater system and admin resources than we have available. Brief details of the measures we use are given on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Spam TIP Wiki Spam page]. If these are not sufficient for your requirements, then you need to use some of the following alternatives. # make use of the spam filtering capabilities of your email client. Many email clients come with spam filtering capabilities. However you need to activate and train these to make use of them. Once enabled, you need to tag messages as ''spam'' or ''not spam'' so your program learns what you regard as spam (or not). With sufficient training, this can help classify emails fairly well, as you wish. The disadvantage of this approach is that this classification is done on just one system, and doesn't help if you use several systems, and/or [https://www.tip.net.au/webmail/ webmail] to access your email. # [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email_Forwarding Forward your Email] to another ISP, or to a large web-email provider (eg. gmail, yahoo, hotmail) who have the resources to run more agressive and nuanced email filters, and then access and read your email from this site. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == Further Information == Sites you can visit to find out more about "spam" are:- * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spam_(electronic) Wikipedia Spam page] * [https://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs20-spam.htm Anti-Spam Consumer Resources and Information] * [http://www.spamtrackers.eu/wiki/index.php/Main_Page Spamtrackers SpamWiki] == See Also == * [[Scams]] - for details on scams, which may well be spread by spam [[Category:Technical Info]] 9678c0589d3c6167a95f77125c6a07fd32562817 0 194 1040 2013-08-23T03:33:00Z Lpb 2 moved [[Spam and scams: unwanted e-mail]] to [[Handling Email SPAM]]:&#32;separating out info on how to handle spam/scams from existing Spam and Scams pages wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[Handling Email SPAM]] 67d97470ac13461ac2715417466d03b7b49a0a30 0 112 1043 997 2013-08-27T03:26:59Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ session numbering correction wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">Advertised dates for this course have changed!</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who do have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.5hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am to 12.15 pm. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 24 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 31 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 07 August 2013 ** Session 7 - Wed 14 August 2013 (Note, this session is an informal additional if needed for clarification of any prior content) *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] * <span style="color:green">Please note this brochure is currently being updated to reflect the restrucutred course. !</span> == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b42fae85baa07514aa1545089cf4443eee486b5c 1064 1043 2013-09-04T02:14:17Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ description detail update wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">Advertised dates for this course have changed!</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who do have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.5hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am to 12.15 pm. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 03 July 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 10 July 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 17 July 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 24 July 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 31 July 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 07 August 2013 ** Session 7 - Wed 14 August 2013 (Note, this session is an informal additional if needed for clarification of any prior content) *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] *'''BROCHURE''': Details of session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)] * <span style="color:green">Please note this brochure is currently being updated to reflect the restrucutred course. !</span> == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 8ff10d05ba914ebcbfbf55cc7078bfc4a75f6baf 1065 1064 2013-09-05T01:14:15Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ ABC-K details wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.5hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am to 12.15 pm. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 16 October 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 23 October 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 30 October 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 06 November 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 13 November 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 20 November 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] def1f9929d911353cf0b233bb7b63283b4953816 0 165 1044 789 2013-08-31T23:02:42Z Rpeters 14 updated to add Epson to recommendations wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices scan via USB interface only and not via network. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:02, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[:Technical Info]] 864022ae8e1ea2c75185a5eb04e1f64e0d5a8965 0 166 1045 790 2013-08-31T23:21:23Z Rpeters 14 added sections for Apps & Troubleshooting plus minor mods wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner *Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS *SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model **check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported *most Linux distributions use the same scanning software **XSane is the most capable **scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps === Selection Guideance === #check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model #'''download''' and '''install''' relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project #*this can usually be done without the scanner physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Scanner Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network *HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners **most Epson devices support scanning via USB only (not via network) === Apps === Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality *XSane **can also be used via GIMP *SimpleScan Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans *B&W/Lineart might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents === Troubleshooting === If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check: *scanner/multi-function powered UP *connection via USB or LAN made *relevant driver installed --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:21, 1 September 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 973b47c2dfea1cb6858abe49b58402a9723973dd 2 95 1047 906 2013-08-31T23:42:53Z Rpeters 14 /* Firewalls */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" *primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] ed3d6698d754dfb8c89e11fefb3916cdac66cad2 1048 1047 2013-09-01T00:11:27Z Rpeters 14 /* Firewalls */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" *primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" *primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned **extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers **might enhance security cf older ADSL devices Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble transmission == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2ddcf9b9ba99f24ea71afc5eb2342fe9c4d2d542 1049 1048 2013-09-01T01:07:40Z Rpeters 14 /* Firewalls */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, ADSL modem/router generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] e8735946adbaa5c39c1a8446e268a8c813d87baa 1050 1049 2013-09-01T01:21:04Z Rpeters 14 /* Firewalls */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 80f065588bfe27c2c867b1b4bbce3931c5efc9d1 0 195 1051 2013-09-01T01:42:28Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "The primary purpose of routing is to share one Internet connection between multiple devices (computer/laptop/tablet) === Categories of Internet Connection === Virtually no comme…" wikitext text/x-wiki The primary purpose of routing is to share one Internet connection between multiple devices (computer/laptop/tablet) === Categories of Internet Connection === Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *"Mobile" Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" === Characteristics of Router Types === ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength Dial-up Routers *no longer commercially available *options/alternatives include **change to another type of ISP service **DIY router see: [[DIY]] USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required === Selection === A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] === Configuration === *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well 0c1c6a6d9df2debfccd48489ddba57335f16fbde 1058 1051 2013-09-01T04:22:22Z Rpeters 14 separated into sections for general users, the more technical & geeks wikitext text/x-wiki The primary purpose of routing is to share one Internet connection between multiple devices (computer/laptop/tablet) == For General Users == === Categories of Internet Connection === Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *"Mobile" Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers", depending on the type of Internet connection being used *for an ADSL service use an ADSL combined modem/router *for a mobile broadband service use any device supporting this type of service **"pocket" mobile broadband router **an ADSL modem/router or broadband router that supports USB mobile broadband modem *for most other services use a broadband router If the product description of a router does not make clear its applicability see "Getting Technical" below for some guidelines == Getting Technical == === Characteristics of Router Types === ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength Dial-up Routers *no longer commercially available *options/alternatives include **change to another type of ISP service **DIY router see: [[DIY]] USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required === Selection === A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] === Configuration === *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 14:22, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 7589498e81f54da9c66a90df78245ff3df9c529d 1059 1058 2013-09-01T04:59:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The primary purpose of routing, in a home or small enterprise, is to share one Internet connection between multiple devices (computer/laptop/tablet/VoIP) === Categories of Internet Connection === Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *"Mobile" Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line === Applicable Routers === If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers", depending on the type of Internet connection being used *for an ADSL service use an ADSL combined modem/router *for a mobile broadband service use any device supporting this type of service **"pocket" mobile broadband router **an ADSL modem/router or broadband router that supports USB mobile broadband modem *for most other services use a (broadband) router If the product description of a router does not make clear its applicability see "Getting Technical" below for some guidelines If an existing router of any form is in service, but has only one Ethernet socket, then a new router is rarely required *adding an Ethernet '''switch''' should enable sharing *although a replacment, multi-port router would take less space and consume less electricity === ICS === Not uncommon earlier practice was to use a Windows PC with "Internet Connection Sharing" (ICS) activated, to share an Internet connection with other devices. Effectively the PC was a router. Nowadays this has several disadvantages: *cost of the additional network "card" outweighs the cost of a mid-range separate router **ditto for WiFi, if required *complicated when multiple devices sharing wired LAN *much lower electricity comsumption for separate router **enables main PC to be powered off much of the time *expensive to have a reserve ICS computer **people relying on Internet more extensivly nowadays **reserve, dedicated router device affordable *most ISP have abandoned earlier practice of allowing connection from only one. explicit PC *any security compromise on the main PC puts others on the LAN at risk == Getting Technical == === Characteristics of Router Types === ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength Dial-up Routers *no longer commercially available *options/alternatives include **change to another type of ISP service **DIY router see: [[DIY]] USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required === Selection === A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] === Configuration === *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Strictly for Geeks == Various techniques for improving on commercially available routers are outlined at [[DIY]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 14:22, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 49a77eb672ed4e297a9a6b9bfbd51abeb102cf40 0 196 1054 2013-09-01T02:14:21Z Rpeters 14 added outline only - refers readers to NBN site for any further details wikitext text/x-wiki The phone service that NBN will be providing is based on VoIP - see section below A key difference is that a battery is included in the box that is installed at consumers premises and provides a few hours of phone use during mains power outages see http://www.nbnco.com.au/ for details --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:14, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 4658f90f5901e0e6753bf25e4d466e5c9874f3ff 0 197 1055 2013-09-01T02:36:49Z Rpeters 14 outline of existing practices re telephone services associated with VDSL & ADSL services wikitext text/x-wiki === "Cable" === subscribers to TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL service have '''two''' Cat 5 network cables run to their premises *one services plain old telephone (POTS) only **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *the second services Internet '''and''' ''optional'' "WebTV" subscribers need to be careful not to plug equipment into the incorrect socket *has reportedly caused equipment failure TransACT might agree to "underground" these cables, at customer expense === ADSL === TransACT installers wire a fixed "splitter" at customers premises (usually withing the ceiling space) *phone socket usually remains at original location **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *socket for Internet service is wired at location of customer's preference (if practical) **choose location suitable for WiFi coverage, if appliable **also choose location from which wired LAN cables ''could'' be run in "star" topology === NBN === Would conform with NBN practice. See section below see http://www.transact.com.au for further information --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:36, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] a05cb14e95e4855a4ed76191c54d1f1819f0cec7 1056 1055 2013-09-01T02:38:03Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki === "Cable" === subscribers to TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL service have '''two''' Cat 5 network cables run to their premises *one services plain old telephone (POTS) only **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *the second services Internet '''and''' ''optional'' "WebTV" subscribers need to be careful not to plug equipment into the incorrect socket *has reportedly caused equipment failure TransACT might agree to "underground" these cables, at customer expense === ADSL === TransACT installers wire a fixed "splitter" at customers premises (usually withing the ceiling space) *phone socket usually remains at original location **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *socket for Internet service is wired at location of customer's preference (if practical) **choose location suitable for WiFi coverage, if appliable **also choose location from which wired LAN cables ''could'' be run in "star" topology === NBN === Would conform with NBN practice. See previous section see http://www.transact.com.au for further information --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:36, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 412427001bb82a4f97f20c9ce4d632b933c5930a 0 198 1057 2013-09-01T02:56:12Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "== Service == Voice over IP (VoIP) requires a Voice Service Plan '''in addition to''' an ISP *available from **specialist VSP providers **larger ISP typically also offer VSP *a…" wikitext text/x-wiki == Service == Voice over IP (VoIP) requires a Voice Service Plan '''in addition to''' an ISP *available from **specialist VSP providers **larger ISP typically also offer VSP *additional cost **but may be economically viable under some bundled plans Note that VoIP equipment relies on electicity that is supplied by the '''customer''' for operation *some form of battery UPS would be needed if operation during power outages is required == Equipment == Primary equipment required is an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) *small device similar in appearance to a router **connects conventional telephone handset to LAN **may be included in up-market routers --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:56, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 03c8edc14eafa472644e69b1ce3b062b375624f1 0 132 1060 634 2013-09-01T05:34:54Z Rpeters 14 added reference to openWRT wikitext text/x-wiki == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC *new mainboards now affordable - see below under "Hardware" Additional hardware will be required, whatever main board is used: *additional network cards **most USB-Ethernet devices supported **some USB modems will work in lieu one Ethernet card *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC === Hardware === Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used mainly in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage === Software === Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people === Zoning === Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == Be aware that the following techniques can render commecial routers unusable and perhaps unrecoverable, if applied unsuccessfully. === openWRT === openWRT http://wiki.openwrt.org is a long standing project aimed initially at utilising improved software on commerical routers. More recently it has morphed to: *a more general embedded Linux distribution for compact devices *covering a much wider range of off-the-shelf devices One of the more popular devices to which openWRT it is currently applied is the TP-Link TL-703N *'''not''' sold on the Australian market *must be sourced from China *nearest equivalent on the Australian market appears to be the TP-Link TL-MR3020 === Developer Boards === DIY routers based on bare boards utilising an ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. *have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage **whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates *require more careful matching of hardware and software **ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations ***advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation *raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] **IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it **alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it Developer boards typically have more RAM & CPU resources than openWRT devices thus making print servers and caching routers more practical. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 15:34, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 9c61a49a2590e5fa3327dd5b26a5084fda58e1e0 0 199 1062 2013-09-01T09:24:10Z Pblair 10 Created page with " '''Problems''' Scareware is a branch of the scam family, and has been around now for many years. For the most part, scareware is not automated and requires some action on your …" wikitext text/x-wiki '''Problems''' Scareware is a branch of the scam family, and has been around now for many years. For the most part, scareware is not automated and requires some action on your part to become active. Therein might lie the source of the problem. In its simplest form, scareware either alarms you or pretends to do something that requires your attention, usually by clicking through something or other, known as 'clickjacking'. At that point, you have handed control of your computer or device to someone who may do something harmful to it. Or worse, you provide something you really should keep private, like credit card details to 'buy' a cure. The fix is easy - don't click anything, even a 'Close' button, in the body of the web page or e-mail. Registry checkers and cleaners are a popular scare. Very few people know much about the registry, fret about having a backup, and have read enough scary articles about the end of the world being nigh to abandon common sense. Left alone (as in untouched by human hand) registry entries are very sturdy and can be left to do their own thing. The other main theme at present is driver updates. At first blush, these seem reasonable offerings. But screen designs are deliberately confusing (which button do I click?) and, again, you hand over a degree of control to someone you've never met. If you have a driver problem, go to the hardware manufacturer's website and start from there. Remember that very few devices get driver updates in their lifetime, so the odds are in your favour. The final and most dreadful variation on this them is ransomware. "We have locked your computer and will unlock it for $xxx" There have been reports of this in Australia. It is usually not a total lockout, but it can purport to affect certain key files and throw up a warning message. Experiences of this suggest that very few files get affected and the warning messages are not real. But this is not a happy situation. '''Solutions''' The difficulty is how to deal with problems. Most attacks are mounted on the administrative account, which usually belongs to the owner of the computer. Some users create a second admin account to give them a way in to their computer that isn't tainted, but that's not common. To get around the brick wall of the admin account, go into Safe Mode (F8 during startup for XP, Vista, Win 7 - Shift plus F8 then 'See advanced...', 'Troubleshoot' and 'Advanced Options' in F8). Now you can use something like Windows Security Essentials/Defender to go looking and, hopefully, cleaning. There is an offline version of this if you need it. If all that fails, try Sysinternals Autoruns ([http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb963902]). To quote the blurb: ''"This utility, which has the most comprehensive knowledge of auto-starting locations of any startup monitor, shows you what programs are configured to run during system bootup or login, and shows you the entries in the order Windows processes them. These programs include ones in your startup folder, Run, RunOnce, and other Registry keys. You can configure Autoruns to show other locations, including Explorer shell extensions, toolbars, browser helper objects, Winlogon notifications, auto-start services, and much more. Autoruns goes way beyond the MSConfig utility bundled with Windows Me and XP. ''Autoruns' Hide Signed Microsoft Entries option helps you to zoom in on third-party auto-starting images that have been added to your system and it has support for looking at the auto-starting images configured for other accounts configured on a system. Also included in the download package is a command-line equivalent that can output in CSV format, Autorunsc."'' [[File:Autoruns.jpg|600px|thumb|center|Autoruns]] Choose the '''Logon''' tab and see what is loading when the system boots. You can adjust things that you might not want...but, as ever, be careful. You don't even need to download it, you can run it (safely) from the website. But it would be a good idea to put a copy on your hard drive so you can reach it when in difficulty. I'd run it weekly so nothing sneaks under your guard. The reference to Windows Me is startling! But the utility has had regular updates since then. dcd575598d2959f7ec0795e2b6a89e0de21e6720 6 200 1063 2013-09-01T09:24:53Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 112 1066 1065 2013-09-05T01:17:05Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ time correction wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday. <br/>(Exercises are allocated for participants to do at home) <br/> ** Session 1 - Wed 16 October 2013 ** Session 2 - Wed 23 October 2013 ** Session 3 - Wed 30 October 2013 ** Session 4 - Wed 06 November 2013 ** Session 5 - Wed 13 November 2013 ** Session 6 - Wed 20 November 2013 *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b24e2eb1a0653e9d294be45344e4486e76b1cb44 1070 1066 2013-09-09T07:23:27Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) */ dates change updated wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b71837084f818ad585e151f17722d23ab17b12de 0 4 1067 996 2013-09-05T09:45:37Z Offcmngr 6 OM position wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Date 5 September, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, has given advanced Notice of Resignation to the PCUG Committee taking effect at the end of this year, for personal family reasons. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005. An advertisement for the Office Manager position will be released once approved by the committee. The Committee have extended well wishes to Karen for the future, as echoed my many PCUG members individually. == PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item Date 29 July 2013''<br/> * The PCUG AGM will be held in the GCCC Large Conference Rm (Ground Floor) * Nominations for Committee are now open. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information] * The Volunteer of the Year will be announced during the evening. * The Meeting will be followed by a presentation TBA. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item Date 21 May 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG Member Survey Update == '''''Item Date 30 Apr 2013 '''''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013'''''<br> * Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]]. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Description'''== '''''Item Date: 18 July 2012'''''<br/> To make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, we are seeking input to job descriptions of activities supported by volunteers within PCUG. We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, for this information to be incorporated into the PCUG website Volunteer area. Feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 404c5c1ec8cb344e54cde1fb6bf8d6dca8a8ee24 1068 1067 2013-09-05T10:35:10Z Offcmngr 6 Volunteer Job Descriptions wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. =='''PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions'''== '''''Item Date: 5 September 2013'''''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == Office Manager Position == ''Item Date 5 September, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, has given advanced Notice of Resignation to the PCUG Committee taking effect at the end of this year, for personal family reasons. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005. An advertisement for the Office Manager position will be released once approved by the committee. The Committee have extended well wishes to Karen for the future, as echoed my many PCUG members individually. == PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item Date 29 July 2013''<br/> * The PCUG AGM will be held in the GCCC Large Conference Rm (Ground Floor) * Nominations for Committee are now open. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information] * The Volunteer of the Year will be announced during the evening. * The Meeting will be followed by a presentation TBA. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item Date 21 May 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG Member Survey Update == '''''Item Date 30 Apr 2013 '''''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013'''''<br> * Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]]. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 668275860f4c51e277951593739e9256131f195e 1069 1068 2013-09-05T10:51:34Z Offcmngr 6 Spring 2013 Training Courses wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Training Courses in Spring, 2013 == ''Item Date: 5 September, 2013''<br/> * Expressions of Interest are being accepted for "Introduction to Spreadsheets'' and "Absolute Beginners Computing - Group K (ABC-K) * See [[Training Courses]] for full information. == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item Date: 5 September 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == Office Manager Position == ''Item Date 5 September, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, has given advanced Notice of Resignation to the PCUG Committee taking effect at the end of this year, for personal family reasons. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005. An advertisement for the Office Manager position will be released once approved by the committee. The Committee have extended well wishes to Karen for the future, as echoed my many PCUG members individually. == PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item Date 29 July 2013''<br/> * The PCUG AGM will be held in the GCCC Large Conference Rm (Ground Floor) * Nominations for Committee are now open. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information] * The Volunteer of the Year will be announced during the evening. * The Meeting will be followed by a presentation TBA. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item Date 21 May 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria may be applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details of this are still being confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item Date 21 May, 2013'''''<br/> *Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] *PCUG is an official partner. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] for updates == PCUG Member Survey Update == '''''Item Date 30 Apr 2013 '''''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] == PCUG in 2013 == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013'''''<br> * Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]]. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] e85baf30bf0d0371caf43479e6669949f7729964 1098 1069 2013-11-19T00:36:33Z Krja 9 multiple notice updates - november 2013 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) for further information. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == National Cyber Security Week Partner == '''''Item revised 19 November, 2013'''''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] * We have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * The PCUG Facebook page is another forum of information that may be contributed to. Check out the [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au PCUG Facebook Page] == PCUG Member Survey Update == '''''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013 '''''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == '''''Item Date 29 January, 2013'''''<br/> * Welcome back to PCUG in 2013 * The PCUG Office re-opens for business on Tuesday 29 January, 2013 at 10am. * Many thanks to the PCUG Volunteers who kept services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2013 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Training Courses in 2013 == '''''Item Date revised 21 May, 2013'''''<br> * Further Courses for 2013 are now being scheduled. * Course Information is listed on the [[Training Courses]]. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 1 December, 2012 11am - 3.30pm == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Limited refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. Please bring plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == PCUG Centre & Office Closure dates == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * COB 2pm Wednesday 20 December 2012 * Open For Business: 10am Tue 29 January, 2013 * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Thur 20 December, 2012 to Monday 28 January 2013. * Business will resume after the Australia day long weekend. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == PCUG AGM Draft Minutes == '''''Item Date 2 November, 2012'''''<br> * draft minutes now available [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required =='''PCUG Annual General Meeting'''== '''''Item revised 01 September 2012'''''<br/> ===AGM details=== *The 2012 PCUG AGM is scheduled for '''Wednesday 24 October 2012, at 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start''' *The venue is the Grant Cameron Community Centre Conference Room, 27 Mulley Street HOLDER ACT 2611 *Full details available from [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] *Please note that the closure date for committee nominations is Thursday 18 October, 2012, 2pm (COB for the PCUG Office). *The PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2012 announcement will be deferred to the next appropriate opportunity, as the nominated volunteer is not available to be present on the night of the AGM. *A presentation will also follow the AGM (as below) === Presentation After the AGM === *The Presentation after the AGM will be Hosted by members of the LINUX SIG. *Please see the [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm/| the PCUG website AGM Info page]] for full details. =='''PCUG Office Hours'''== '''''Item updated 01 September 2012'''''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times have been suspended. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == '''PCUG Training Room - available for use by members, member groups or External hire (NP Orgs or Commercial Hire)''' == '''''Item Updated 01 September 2012''''' <br/> *The PCUG Training room is refurbished with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and NP groups, or commercial hire. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''''''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. =='''PCUG Information Wiki Announced'''== ''''''Item Date 8 Aug, 2012''''''<br/> We are pleased to announce the release of the new PCUG Information Wiki, which now hosts this '''News and Notices''' page, and provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other. We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site!<br/> =='''PCUG Website volunteers'''== ''''''Item Date 20 July, 2012''''''<br/> The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. <br/> =='''Stay Smart Online'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website.<br/> =='''TIO'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> =='''Welcome New PCUG Members'''== '''''Item Date 23June2012'''''<br/> Welcome Roger Quarterman (Treasurer), Peter Pan (Assistant Treasurer) and Paul Richter (Committee Member).<br/> Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == '''PCUG on Facebook''' == ''''''Item Date 01June2012''' <br/> When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. Help spread the word about PCUG. Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == '''PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies''' == '''''Item Date 28May2012''''' <br/> The PCUG Committee is in need of Volunteers. The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. 3 Executive Positions are now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest.<br/> == '''E-waste Recycling Information''' == '''''Item Date 02May2012''''' <br/> For the information about recycling of computer equipment.<br/> "Chief Minister Gallagher has announced that the days of paying through the nose to dispose of a television are at an end ..." http://the-riotact.com/an-e-waste-recycling-scheme-to-end-the-tv-dumps/71939 <br/> == '''CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS''' == '''''Item Date 01May2012''''' <br/r> An all-member email was recently circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. <br/> Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. <br/> Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 30993f096a448074fc10b6db57882ec78952fa08 1100 1098 2013-11-19T02:30:58Z Krja 9 more updates and revisions of all items wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 30 November, 2013 11am - 2.30pm == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br> * PCUG Centre Holder. * Refreshments non-alcholic drinks provided. You are welcome to bring a plate & BYOG. * See you there !!! == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013 * Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend. * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == TIO == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 7258a7a812e30b018ed5f51585fda012fb572582 1102 1100 2013-11-21T02:28:48Z Krja 9 /* PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 30 November, 2013 11am - 2.30pm */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 30 November, 2013 11am - 2.30pm == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br> * at the PCUG Centre, in Holder. * Light refreshments (including non-alcholic drinks), will be provided. * Your assistance to bring a plate, or contribute a gold coin donation will be appreciated. * BYOG. * See you there !!! == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013 * Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend. * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == TIO == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_2012|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 5db09b6c7d644e415951e9c38a1e07fbac7bf4b9 1107 1102 2013-12-08T05:28:30Z Offcmngr 6 renamed News_and_Notices_2012 to News_and_Notices_archives wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 30 November, 2013 11am - 2.30pm == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br> * at the PCUG Centre, in Holder. * Light refreshments (including non-alcholic drinks), will be provided. * Your assistance to bring a plate, or contribute a gold coin donation will be appreciated. * BYOG. * See you there !!! == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013 * Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend. * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == TIO == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] b3a33055bb5709d13cd71492d1bfef30fc1f802d 1109 1107 2013-12-08T05:30:20Z Offcmngr 6 archived PCUG Xmas party wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013 * Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend. * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == TIO == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 775de77cbe6b1cb9aee1d61fa19fda1dad69fea4 1111 1109 2013-12-15T08:12:41Z Offcmngr 6 non-attachment policy reversal wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item date 15 December, 2013''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013 * Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend. * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == TIO == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] dfc5cdc6c27b9bc2761676e67c0ec01595fc74f2 1115 1111 2013-12-18T05:14:03Z Offcmngr 6 Closure of TIP Services wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 18 December, 2013''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item date 15 December, 2013''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013 * Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend. * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == TIO == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 4d36d377208bf38ce367dfb95f55898b1af1f57f 0 7 1071 1061 2013-09-11T05:22:25Z Rpeters 14 /* Disks */ added section re floppy disk conversion wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 34eec614800b928a476f249b4394ebf54bd7ee93 1075 1071 2013-10-05T22:15:40Z Rpeters 14 /* Peripherals */added section for bootable DOS USB sticks wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 5f2b0b52bf7c50442ed244ad28bbb41cccb4dcab 0 201 1072 2013-09-11T05:51:21Z Rpeters 14 added guidelines for conversion between formats and transfer to contempory (USB) media wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === Many modern PC have neither floppy disk drives nor facility to install them. Some computers in the Main office at PCUG can be used to transfer data between: *3.5 inch floppy disks and USB devices (memory sticks/portable HDD) Floppy disks can be converted at PCUG, via a different, older PC that is held in store and has the capability to read/write: *5 1/4 inch floppies of MSDOS format in 1.2MB (HD), 360 kB (DS) and possibly 180 kB (SS) capacities *3 1/2 inch floppies of 1.44 MB (HD) and 720 kB (DD) capacities Members need to ask the Staffer's permission to set up the older PC for use. === Getting Technical === Windows PC generally can't read Macintosh floppies. Macintoshes were able to convert between the two formats - however PCUG does not hold a Macintosh computer. 2.88 MB (ED) floppy drives have a different cable interface and cannot readily be fitted to PC. Anyone needing to recover data from them would need to ask in another forum. Essentially, a 1990 vintage IBM PS/2 computer is required. One rule of thumb is that lower density magnetic media has poorer durability than higher density. Anyone needing to recover data from 5.25 inch floppies is advised not to delay. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 15:51, 11 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 84fcccc530850e72e9034721ebbe4f2026079196 1079 1072 2013-10-06T03:24:55Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ restructured wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === Time is running out for anyone needing to recover data from 5 1/4" floppy disks, for several reasons: *data on lower density magnetic media is retained less reliably in the longer term (although this might seem counter-intuitive) *many contemporary PC have neither floppy disk drives nor facility to install them *PC up to about 8 years old might support 3.5" floppy drives but not 5 1/4" ==== Facilities at PCUG Centre ==== Some computers in the Main office at PCUG can be used to transfer data between: *3.5 inch floppy disks and USB devices (memory sticks/portable HDD) Floppy disks can be converted at PCUG, via a different, older PC that is held in store and has the capability to read/write: *5 1/4 inch floppies of MSDOS format in 1.2MB (HD), 360 kB (DS) and possibly 180 kB (SS) capacities *3 1/2 inch floppies of 1.44 MB (HD) and 720 kB (DD) capacities Members need to ask the Staffer's permission to set up the older PC for use. === Getting Technical === Windows PC generally can't read Macintosh floppies. Macintoshes were able to convert between the two formats - however PCUG does not hold a Macintosh computer. 2.88 MB (ED) floppy drives have a different cable interface and cannot readily be fitted to PC. Anyone needing to recover data from them would need to ask in another forum. Essentially, a 1990 vintage IBM PS/2 computer is required. One rule of thumb is that lower density magnetic media has poorer durability than higher density. Anyone needing to recover data from 5.25 inch floppies is advised not to delay. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 15:51, 11 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 78839daa88d83d116571c51c8a418f1002374230 1080 1079 2013-10-06T03:32:48Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === Time is running out for anyone needing to recover data from 5 1/4" floppy disks, for several reasons: *data on lower density magnetic media is retained less reliably in the longer term (although this might seem counter-intuitive) *many contemporary PC have neither floppy disk drives nor facility to install them *PC up to about 8 years old might support 3.5" floppy drives but not 5 1/4" *early personal computers used a plethora of formats on 5 1/4" floppies and few of those computers remain servicable ==== Facilities at PCUG Centre ==== Computers at PCUG are set up to use floppies only in the MSDOS format (also called PC or FAT12 format) Some computers in the Main office at PCUG can be used to transfer data between: *3.5 inch floppy disks and USB devices (memory sticks/portable HDD) Floppy disks can be converted at PCUG, via a different, older PC that is held in store and has the capability to read/write: *5 1/4 inch floppies of MSDOS format in 1.2MB (HD), 360 kB (DS) and possibly 180 kB (SS) capacities *3 1/2 inch floppies of 1.44 MB (HD) and 720 kB (DD) capacities Members need to ask the Staffer's permission to set up the older PC for use. === Getting Technical === Windows PC generally can't read Macintosh floppies. Macintoshes were able to convert between the two formats - however PCUG does not hold a Macintosh computer. 2.88 MB (ED) floppy drives have a different cable interface and cannot readily be fitted to PC. Anyone needing to recover data from them would need to ask in another forum. Essentially, a 1990 vintage IBM PS/2 computer is required. One rule of thumb is that lower density magnetic media has poorer durability than higher density. Anyone needing to recover data from 5.25 inch floppies is advised not to delay. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 15:51, 11 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 187e0a307b1abf98063217a74aec1a4e5280b8a0 1081 1080 2013-10-06T03:48:22Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Technical */ wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === Time is running out for anyone needing to recover data from 5 1/4" floppy disks, for several reasons: *data on lower density magnetic media is retained less reliably in the longer term (although this might seem counter-intuitive) *many contemporary PC have neither floppy disk drives nor facility to install them *PC up to about 8 years old might support 3.5" floppy drives but not 5 1/4" *early personal computers used a plethora of formats on 5 1/4" floppies and few of those computers remain servicable ==== Facilities at PCUG Centre ==== Computers at PCUG are set up to use floppies only in the MSDOS format (also called PC or FAT12 format) Some computers in the Main office at PCUG can be used to transfer data between: *3.5 inch floppy disks and USB devices (memory sticks/portable HDD) Floppy disks can be converted at PCUG, via a different, older PC that is held in store and has the capability to read/write: *5 1/4 inch floppies of MSDOS format in 1.2MB (HD), 360 kB (DS) and possibly 180 kB (SS) capacities *3 1/2 inch floppies of 1.44 MB (HD) and 720 kB (DD) capacities Members need to ask the Staffer's permission to set up the older PC for use. === Getting Technical === PCUG does not hold the hardware needed to read less common floppy disk formats: *Windows PC generally can't read Macintosh floppies. Macintoshes were able to convert between the two formats **PCUG does not have a Macintosh computer. *2.88 MB (ED) floppy drives have a different cable interface and cannot readily be fitted to PC **anyone needing to recover data from them would need to ask in another forum. Essentially, a 1990 vintage IBM PS/2 computer is required. *a variety of techniques have been used in earlier years to increase the storage capacity of HD 3.5" media. These techniques: **sometimes used larger sectors ***fairly reliable **but might have used additional tracks or sectors per track ***not reliably moved between drives *these techniques were primarily used for software **data is unlikely to be stored on such floppies The Linux tool "fdutils" can handle most of these exotic formats, including Macintosh formats. *success where additional tracks or sectors are involved will be hardware-dependent *this tool is not set up on PCUG computers One rule of thumb is that lower density magnetic media has poorer durability than higher density. Anyone needing to recover data from 5 1/4 inch floppies is advised not to delay. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 14:48, 6 October 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] d884446d852f3aa02b326349a3ed25d91fd84c13 2 95 1073 1050 2013-09-12T00:33:00Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 54df0b5da9508e967fa2960c6226d8a25afe0209 1074 1073 2013-09-12T00:49:17Z Rpeters 14 /* Overview */ wikitext text/x-wiki == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] dc9592fb3ae0fa68753774a7ffce8ada25f7530d 1076 1074 2013-10-05T22:28:43Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == == For General Users == The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. Three approaches are available *HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which are installed to Windows and then have facility for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) *HP's second utility is not self contained but more flexible **requires ono of their "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for a recent commercial notebook plus **FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso) http://www.freedos.org/download/ == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] b93e819f32bdb2c158554941dbcc6fceb16bb416 1077 1076 2013-10-05T22:43:42Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. Three approaches are available *HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which are installed to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) *HP's second utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it does require Windows **but can use USB sticks of > 2 GB via FAT 32 **requires one of their "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for a recent commercial notebook plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso) *DIY - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available http://www.freedos.org/download/ General users would need to burn the above ISO to CD. That step can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6c94d0530e5729854e57204aded8ae1b827352c8 1078 1077 2013-10-05T22:47:58Z Rpeters 14 /* DOS USB */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. Three approaches are available *HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which are installed to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) *HP's second utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it does require Windows **but can use USB sticks of > 2 GB via FAT 32 **requires one of their "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for a recent commercial notebook plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso) *DIY - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available http://www.freedos.org/download/ General users would need to burn the above ISO to CD. That step can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below Then follow instructions on the HP support site to install the utility to Windows and create bootable USB stick(s) === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above have Syslinux bootloader inbuilt. The bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 469543dbc12aeb3de0b01592e7451af808d0b6c7 1082 1078 2013-10-06T21:31:57Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it does require Windows **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of their "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for a recent commercial notebook plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe General users would need to burn the above ISO to CD. That step can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below Then follow instructions on the HP support site to install the utility to Windows and create bootable USB stick(s) === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above have Syslinux bootloader inbuilt. The bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE will produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. The above procedure should also work on FAT32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 994451f536ce551f21b047f7d1b9fa616c6be0ba 1083 1082 2013-10-06T21:42:06Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.sys & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, to provide the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO to CD. That step can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above have Syslinux bootloader inbuilt. The bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE will produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. The above procedure should also work on FAT32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] e57f3ee459bf9583df5fc9cf206b30c4f208895f 1084 1083 2013-10-06T21:44:27Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.sys & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, to provide the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO to CD. That step can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above have Syslinux bootloader inbuilt. The bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE will produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. The above procedure should also work on FAT32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6e7e3b4a95cdbd154fcd37405d87d519ca7ab903 1085 1084 2013-10-06T21:54:22Z Rpeters 14 /* Purpose */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.sys & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, to provide the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO to CD. That step can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above have Syslinux bootloader inbuilt. The bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE will produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. The above procedure should also work on FAT32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] d454738152722186625df5e4cd3f502c710497e5 1086 1085 2013-10-06T21:55:00Z Rpeters 14 /* Procedure */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.sys & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, to provide the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO to CD. That step can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above have Syslinux bootloader inbuilt. The bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE will produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. The above procedure should also work on FAT32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] aa55a9c058936e4aade8a9a7f9e7f4ed2fb64476 1087 1086 2013-10-06T21:58:33Z Rpeters 14 /* Procedure */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.sys & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above have Syslinux bootloader inbuilt. The bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE will produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. The above procedure should also work on FAT32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 05dbb4b9dbf1300474227193fd9f6ac4dbd59d94 1088 1087 2013-10-06T21:59:08Z Rpeters 14 /* Procedure */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above have Syslinux bootloader inbuilt. The bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE will produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. The above procedure should also work on FAT32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 5869027dd6ffb2780babf5ec6afa94577fa8fe47 1089 1088 2013-10-06T22:05:41Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Techhnical */ wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6adc3163d7f895d3f0e50e836b218b18d1f8aec1 0 202 1090 2013-10-06T22:45:34Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "== DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of …" wikitext text/x-wiki == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] c1a5eb40c72f1e87f8523561fb37ea2e99dd85bc 6 203 1091 2013-10-22T08:40:22Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 167 1092 799 2013-10-22T08:42:03Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki [[File:Icon1.jpg]] If you are used to using your desktop to perform tasks, you will want to put a Computer icon on your Windows 8 desktop. [[File:thispc.jpg]] The icon in Windows 8.1 is a little different, but does the same thing. The value of this icon is that a right-click will take you to the '''Manage''' item. From here, you get direct access to useful things, the main two being '''Device Manager''' and '''Disk Management'''. Placing an icon is quite easy. Go to the desktop and right-click on any clear space. A popup will provide some options - select the last one, '''Personalize'''. A new window will open. At the top left, click on '''Change Desktop Items'''. Now you can pick and choose which items to show - Computer, Network, Recycle Bin, User's files. [[Category:Technical Info]] bbdcca9134156ff52317f7855411b5080a61516f 0 5 1093 911 2013-10-27T03:27:44Z Krja 9 /* About Volunteering */ definition of a volunteer page stub wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Definition of a Volunteer]] * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * The [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG CALENDAR] gives an agenda of events about volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) * Specifics of [[Training Courses | TRAINING COURSES]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) * Specifics of [[Special Interest Groups - SIGS |SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS]] (information to follow) * Information of AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS is grouped with [[Newsletters | NEWSLETTERS]] == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] * [[PCUG Training and Media Rooms]] == [[Action Items Assistance Required]] == This is a page where requests for assistance to direct PCUG matters may be placed in the spirit of "Users Helping Users".<br/r> Please go directly to the page to find PCUG tasks needing help. == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] ae19ad247e0051f8e56b7e661c4caa5be8c073d0 0 72 1094 514 2013-10-27T03:28:56Z Krja 9 add category info wikitext text/x-wiki The ''' [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-privacy-policy/ PCUG Privacy Policy]''' (on the main PCUG Wordpress site), details the group's privacy policy, which members and staffers are expected to follow. It may also be accessed using the [[Info Wiki:Privacy policy]] link at the bottom of any wiki page. [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category: Policies and Procedures]] 169f5b9f03a58b321a1bc0bd55535b087eb33998 0 204 1095 2013-10-27T03:33:44Z Krja 9 Page creation, categories & content wikitext text/x-wiki * For the purposes of, but not limited to volunteer insurance, the PCUG Committee agreed on draft wording for the Definition of Volunteer: "a volunteer worker in the PC Users Group (ACT) Inc [PCUG] is defined as a person who is a financial member of the PCUG, and is carrying out an activity: (a) that is directly related to the primary purpose for which the association is incorporated, and (b) for which there exists a definition of the activity that includes: (i) a duty statement; (ii) a job description; (iii) a statement of the expected outcomes from the activity.” [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category: Policies and Procedures]] 224b172caa2be31a4deb9f061095dd4b9df05aef 1096 1095 2013-10-27T03:36:27Z Krja 9 add committee meting date wikitext text/x-wiki * For the purposes of, but not limited to volunteer insurance, the PCUG Committee (at the October 2013 meeting) agreed on draft wording for the Definition of Volunteer: "a volunteer worker in the PC Users Group (ACT) Inc [PCUG] is defined as a person who is a financial member of the PCUG, and is carrying out an activity: (a) that is directly related to the primary purpose for which the association is incorporated, and (b) for which there exists a definition of the activity that includes: (i) a duty statement; (ii) a job description; (iii) a statement of the expected outcomes from the activity.” [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category: Policies and Procedures]] d63052481489c81365686343d3958e37e94dbd49 0 154 1097 780 2013-11-02T19:33:54Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki Windows 8 has extended the options for users who want to insure themselves against loss of their operating system, their files (individually or collectively) or all of the above. File History is a way of taking running backups of files at pre-determined intervals. There is an article about this at http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/10/protecting-user-files-with-file-history.aspx This is a rather unusual physical setup - it is difficult to imagine there being any security in having some sort of external device constantly connected to a production computer. If the production computer fails, there is every chance that it could harm any connected devices. The more fullsome method is a direct copy of what was available in Windows 7. The trick is to find where it appears in Windows 8. There are 2 ways of starting your quest. The first is to open Control Panel and look for Windows 7 File Recovery. The second is to go to the tiles screen. Open the Charms menu, click on Search, then Settings. . Type 'file recovery' and look for Windows 7 File Recovery on the screen. Both methods finish up opening the file recovery window. If you used backup in Windows 7, you will recognize the screen. You have 2 options - create a system image, or a system repair disk. [[File:Bu3a.jpg|500px|thumb|left|Recovery]] The repair disk option is what you will have used previously. Everyone should make one against the possibility that you might find it useful. A system image is a backup of everything on the selected drive to some sort of device - a hard drive, a DVD or any other connection you might have. Just as before, a system image is a complete image - operating system and files. It is total - there's no grabbing individual files in the event of some localised disaster. So, despite being known as File Recovery, that isn't the point at all! To recover using the system image, simply boot from the image. Or, if you want more choices, hold down the Shift key while you reboot your system. '''Windows 8.1 update''' In this release, it is possible only to make a system image. The Windows 7 File Recovery has been removed, to be replaced with System Image Backup. If you want to backup files, you are encouraged to use File Recovery, typically with an external drive as host. [[Category:Technical Info]] 970c7bfe1665a613fba07eebe4e8a5a0e513facb 0 39 1099 108 2013-11-19T02:25:26Z Krja 9 moving items wikitext text/x-wiki ; News and Notices from 2012 : relating to the [http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]. ''move older items from the main [[News_and_Notices]] page here when it starts getting too full''! == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. [[Category:News and Notices]] 7cd63f5a54d8771bec96cb3c597e364af89e636e 1105 1099 2013-12-08T05:25:06Z Offcmngr 6 moved [[News and Notices 2012]] to [[News and Notices archives]]:&#32;a page for old news and notices, 2012 and more wikitext text/x-wiki ; News and Notices from 2012 : relating to the [http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]. ''move older items from the main [[News_and_Notices]] page here when it starts getting too full''! == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. [[Category:News and Notices]] 7cd63f5a54d8771bec96cb3c597e364af89e636e 1108 1105 2013-12-08T05:29:49Z Offcmngr 6 moved PCUG Xmas poarty wikitext text/x-wiki ; News and Notices from 2012 : relating to the [http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]. ''move older items from the main [[News_and_Notices]] page here when it starts getting too full''! == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 30 November, 2013 11am - 2.30pm == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br> * at the PCUG Centre, in Holder. * Light refreshments (including non-alcholic drinks), will be provided. * Your assistance to bring a plate, or contribute a gold coin donation will be appreciated. * BYOG. * See you there !!! == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. [[Category:News and Notices]] 217d9e3e072130e5df4e4d62e908654681dc9570 1110 1108 2013-12-08T05:36:53Z Offcmngr 6 about page info update to reflect page rename, and procedure wikitext text/x-wiki ; News and Notices moved from [[News_and_Notices]] for archiving : relating to the [http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]. *move older items from the main [[News_and_Notices]] page here when it starts getting too full! *note that items may be revised on [[News_and_Notices]], so may not make it to this page in their original form, if at all :) == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 30 November, 2013 11am - 2.30pm == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br> * at the PCUG Centre, in Holder. * Light refreshments (including non-alcholic drinks), will be provided. * Your assistance to bring a plate, or contribute a gold coin donation will be appreciated. * BYOG. * See you there !!! == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. [[Category:News and Notices]] 57de156cd6c024b67ebf2dd6c435558ce07825a0 0 137 1101 1052 2013-11-20T04:22:41Z Lpb 2 /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ add mov 2013 scam email details wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html Thanks. Help Desk ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] b4f35102f4949f64637410af4c39ac2856291685 0 113 1103 548 2013-11-26T08:22:21Z Krja 9 info update progress note wikitext text/x-wiki Information on Special Interest Groups is being moved over from the main PCUG wordpress site to this wiki. Until this happens, please view information at [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups Special Interest Groups] under Member Services on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG site] [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] 15698be1455c3f5c1900060ce334559319f131ee 0 179 1104 973 2013-12-04T00:29:06Z Griffo 38 mobile phone hotspot data limit warning wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] is a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) (unless the Coalition cripple it to become a Fibre to the Node with deteriorating copper to you) network currently under construction in Australia. It will provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses. The remaining homes and businesses will be covered using wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] a6f7117bb582a4c373b877a2ea1cc7381697264a 1113 1104 2013-12-18T04:15:06Z Prichter 15 /* National Broadband Network (NBN) */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 80372453e0a09cb3edad7b3b3db1b4a508290ddd 1114 1113 2013-12-18T04:20:48Z Prichter 15 /* Cable */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These are subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] a6e8aa632953aebab25dbcae35af215ef5c0f040 0 205 1106 2013-12-08T05:25:06Z Offcmngr 6 moved [[News and Notices 2012]] to [[News and Notices archives]]:&#32;a page for old news and notices, 2012 and more wikitext text/x-wiki #REDIRECT [[News and Notices archives]] 52a194db7a02ecb8ebc3552114e7f7cffc6db7a0 0 166 1112 1045 2013-12-18T00:35:04Z Rpeters 14 added reference to Vuescan (non-FOSS) app wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner *Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS *SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model **check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported *most Linux distributions use the same scanning software **XSane is the most capable **scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps === Selection Guideance === #check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model #'''download''' and '''install''' relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project #*this can usually be done without the scanner physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Scanner Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network *HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners **most Epson devices support scanning via USB only (not via network) === Apps === Adjustments are needed to scan documents for archives or images for emailing. Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality *XSane **can also be used via GIMP *SimpleScan *Vuescan (free version) also works well **no installation instructions **good user manual **not open source and might be difficult to support Note that many of these apps default to high-resolution, full colour settings, aimed at photos. *Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans *B&W/Lineart settings might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents === Troubleshooting === If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check: *scanner/multi-function powered UP *connection via USB or LAN made *relevant driver installed --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 11:35, 18 December 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] b5232a753375fbbf4c24eebfd24d8642fba3bcb5 0 166 1116 1112 2013-12-18T05:56:46Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner *Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS *SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model **check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported *most Linux distributions use the same scanning software **XSane is the most capable **scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps === Selection Guideance === #check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model #'''download''' and '''install''' relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project #*this can usually be done without the scanner physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Scanner Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network *HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners **most Epson devices support scanning via USB only (not via network) === Apps === Adjustments are needed to scan documents for archives or images for emailing. Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality *XSane **can also be used via GIMP *SimpleScan *Vuescan (free version) also works well **no installation instructions **good user manual **not open source and might be difficult to support Note that many of these apps default to high-resolution, full colour settings, aimed at photos. *Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans *B&W/Lineart settings might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents === Troubleshooting === If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check: *scanner/multi-function powered UP *connection via USB or LAN made *relevant driver installed --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 11:35, 18 December 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 734f42f27d528f7da36a93cb8b9b893d96330b73 0 4 1117 1115 2013-12-18T06:04:39Z Offcmngr 6 /* Closure of Tip Internet Services */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 18 December, 2013''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item date 15 December, 2013''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013 * Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend. * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == TIO == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 3b054450af27a91003bbec33ceca44b2785cbabb 0 112 1118 1070 2013-12-19T11:13:58Z Quanro 13 /* Wiki Editing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 4287fc13bbbc2326423e8c0cd3c794c397e677b5 1119 1118 2013-12-19T11:22:04Z Quanro 13 /* Current Courses for 2014 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Introduction to Spreadsheets Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets Description & Requirements: A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. There will be six two and a half hour sessions and class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment. Trainer: Roger Quarterman When: Held over 6 sessions Session 1: Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm Session 2: Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm Session 3: Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm NO CLASS Wed 12 March, 2014 Session 4: Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm Session 5: Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm Session 6: Wed 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm Where: PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. Places: up to 10 Applications & Enquiries: Email PCUG Training Coordinatoror phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. 4f4089c3c49a110ce17cc0f2a53d686689a47810 1120 1119 2013-12-19T11:23:52Z Quanro 13 /* Current Courses for 2014 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Introduction to Spreadsheets Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets Description & Requirements: A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. There will be six two and a half hour sessions and class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment. Trainer: Roger Quarterman When: Held over 6 sessions Session 1: Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm Session 2: Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm Session 3: Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm NO CLASS Wed 12 March, 2014 Session 4: Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm Session 5: Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm Session 6: Wed 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm Where: PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Applications & Enquiries: Email PCUG Training Coordinatoror phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. 0a57bd450ee4f95f5bec61257034af7d07f84f66 1121 1120 2013-12-19T11:24:32Z Quanro 13 /* Current Courses for 2014 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Applications & Enquiries: Email PCUG Training Coordinatoror phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. ec5ae553a93032325b605c745854adef4d1433c4 1122 1121 2013-12-19T11:25:56Z Quanro 13 /* Current Courses for 2014 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Applications & Enquiries: Email PCUG Training Coordinatoror phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. b3069844a0aa775e49ce20fbc5a12278c07c2d26 1123 1122 2013-12-19T11:32:11Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' TBA *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Applications & Enquiries: Email PCUG Training Coordinatoror phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. fb730f078236ec627e26d6845421e52beb7d5316 1124 1123 2013-12-19T11:35:23Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' TBA *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. A second course is planned for August/September. Applications & Enquiries: Email PCUG Training Coordinatoror phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. 0b27dbdd48aa452b9ba3f04e1a95bee61d788fae 1125 1124 2013-12-19T11:37:46Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' TBA *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. **'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> f8485de4ae78b3a38b1a0b3f213a6a545cd9501d 1126 1125 2013-12-19T11:38:23Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquireis may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. == Current Courses for 2013 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six 3-hour sessions and for the last two sessions class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 18 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 25 Sept, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 2 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 9 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 Oct, 2013 2-5pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 ($60 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === <span style="color:red">NEW</span> *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions. **'''''Class times: 9.45am to 12.00 midday''''' <br/> ** ''Session 1 - Wed 23 October 2013'' ** ''Session 2 - Wed 30 October 2013'' ** ''Session 3 - Wed 06 November 2013'' ** ''Session 4 - Wed 13 November 2013'' ** ''Session 5 - Wed 20 November 2013'' ** ''Session 6 - Wed 27 November 2013'' *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> LAST HELD Fri 1, 8 , 15, 22 Feb 2013 0930am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Places: 6 * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $60 (or $40 for PCUG members) === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ==Current Courses for 2014== ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' TBA *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> 406f963be5354af6d691a7be4bf50949d9e56229 1153 1126 2014-01-27T04:29:07Z Offcmngr 6 Updating course info for 2014 & Fee info wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin fee of $30 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses. * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **'''''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **'''''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' TBA *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 2, 9, 16 & 23 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $80 (or $50 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. * Modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. * Information will be placed here when finalised. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 23cb2876f7c7dae20997847fe9ba620e0f179da6 1154 1153 2014-01-27T04:33:50Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ fees wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin fee of $30 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses. * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $60 for PCUG members | $90 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 2, 9, 16 & 23 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $80 (or $50 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. * Modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. * Information will be placed here when finalised. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] e9aa0aef21f9a13b8d0d742344750e691e2fd1ff 1155 1154 2014-01-29T02:16:27Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 */ fee correction wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin fee of $30 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses. * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 February 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 5 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 19 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 26 March 2014 2-4.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 2 April 2014 2-4.30pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $60 for PCUG members | $90 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 2, 9, 16 & 23 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. * Modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. * Information will be placed here when finalised. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 7810f94e77d3013265c20e6c65a2c6e627e400a8 1159 1155 2014-01-31T00:18:07Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin fee of $30 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses. * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 2, 9, 16 & 23 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. * Modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. * Information will be placed here when finalised. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 5e9c1478164fc0232b647c9e9d438c3f9f3d2279 0 179 1127 1114 2013-12-20T04:51:42Z Prichter 15 /* Cable */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 82bd28c9b5b9b0d2f2f39cd9abffed1db6b2c507 1128 1127 2013-12-20T05:01:54Z Prichter 15 /* Mobile Broadband */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php Mobile Providers] You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] f1583443f20adafce75de9186dde852573ce46b2 1129 1128 2013-12-20T05:03:25Z Prichter 15 /* Mobile Broadband */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] b82fff04b672fe59eb00b68f31bef0f0ee2a86ce 1156 1129 2014-01-29T10:15:11Z Lpb 2 /* ADSL */ Add note about TransACT ISPs wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] ddb8f28633f4ebd230b83551b30c66ce3e311d82 1157 1156 2014-01-29T10:16:02Z Lpb 2 /* Cable */ Add note about TransACT ISPs wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. You will want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] bb17bae4f42ea90be757e9caabce960f3c1ac0de 0 96 1130 470 2013-12-20T05:25:15Z Prichter 15 /* Graphics & Gaming */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Internet & Office Use == Our Training PC, having the following resources, are quite responsive when running Win7 Pro and using browser, email or office software *3 Gig, single-core CPU *2 GB dual-channel DDR RAM *160 GB SATA hard disk drive *64 MB graphics "card" Any new desktop or laptop PC is likely to have better resources than the above Netbooks, sold with Win7 Starter, typically have the following resources *1.6 Gig, single-core CPU *1 GB dual-channel DDR RAM *160 GB SATA hard disk drive == Graphics & Gaming == It suggested that anyone looking to run recent release PC games be mindful that they will often require much better than minimum system specifications. For Windows 7 users, it is suggested to run the 64 bit version of the operating system and have at least 8 Meg of RAM available. Be aware that the 32 bit version can only utilise up to 3.5 Meg of RAM, which some newer games will not work with reliably, and which may lead to regular system crashes during game play. However be mindful that the 64 bit version will require new drivers for all connected hardware devices and therefore may prove a problem with older peripherals. In addition to a well performing PC, it is likely you will need a relatively recent & powerful graphics card with at least 1GB of video RAM. Higher screen resolutions and larger monitors will typically require faster video cards with even more video memory. Most laptops are often poor performers with PC games as they typically have lower performance built-in video cards which may also share system memory. [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:59, 30 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 0b97c2645e5f9e25afa3a1022e30a5734fd4c9f0 2 95 1131 1089 2013-12-26T23:44:04Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Bootloaders == === Elilio === === GRUB Legacy (aka 0,97 )=== === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 )=== "on-the-fly" Mode GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *partition refers to location of /boot for the operating system to be booted **or merely the system partition for Win *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. Press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. === Syslinux=== == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 3b2f2c8b894e88d9b4720fc0c928b1288061b6bf 1132 1131 2013-12-27T00:05:49Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === "on-the-fly" Mode GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *partition refers to location of /boot for the operating system to be booted **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. Press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] a213ca3ab89982e2faa7f221f2a4a1dfe1422133 1133 1132 2013-12-27T00:30:50Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *partition refers to location of /boot for the operating system to be booted **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. Press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == CUPS == == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Android *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows network printing is much less flexible than CUPS *requires a printer driver on any computer from which a print job is prepare whereas *CUPS requires only that a driver be accessible on the network (typically from a server or other computer) and i would be of limited value bealthough work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: *routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available *minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit == == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display and error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider == Getting Technical == === NX Option === NX (non-execute) is a security feature. A common technique used by malware is to hide code in data-only areas of memory. NX makes that technique ineffective by preventing any such code from running. Consequently it is desirable to utilise NX, where available. Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are provided in hardware, thereby supported and usually included in the kernel *64-bit CPU include many additional instructions which can improve performance somewhat *64-bit CPU and most applicable mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules improve performance if populating dual or triple-channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 12 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete **core hardware drivers for peripherals tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg for printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be provided via programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit variants can be used where 64-bit are not available === PAE Kernels === Many kernel options must be included at compile time ie those cannot be loaded later "on-demand". Included in this category are: *NX feature *PAE option for 32-bit CPU, via which NX is implemented on such CPU *CPU instruction set - typically identified via CPU model eg Pentium, Pentium III etc In general, it is desirable to use a PAE kernel, with 32-bit CPU, simply to obtain the NX feature. Such kernels occupy approximately 200 MB and might not be included on installation media. Typical mechanisms for obtaining them include: *if the option is provided via the installation routine and a broad-band Internet connection is accessible eg via Router *as a post-installation update either from DVD media or via direct download from the Internet == Distributions 64-bit or 32-bit Advantages of 64-bit distributions include *NX features are included in hardware and thereby supported *64-bit CPU and most mainboards support >> 4 GB RAM **8 (or more) GB of RAM is now affordable **2 or 3 RAM modules are preferable if populating dual or triple channel mainboards and the "sweet-spot" pricing would result in 8 or 13 GB RAM *64-bit Linux code is mature and fairly complete *core hardware drivers tend to be manufacturer-agnostic and provided with 64-bit kernels - eg printers, scanners, usb-storage **manufacturer-specific code for peripherals tends to be programs rather than "drivers" and 32-bit can be used where 64-bit are not available == == Work in Progress == === eWaste === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="2"|qty 5 AOpen midATX chassis (from circa 2000 Train PC) ||rowspan="2"| || style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || - || any |- |style="color:red;"| 1.erase HDD || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- |qty 2 short ATX chassis (from previous gen Gateway) || ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || |- | r ||style="color:#ee3900;" || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || style="color:green;"y || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || - || |- | || style="color:green;"|r || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |} === Equipment Issues === {| border="1" cellpadding="5" style="background: #efefef;" |- !Device !! Issue !! Task/Test !! Result !! Reserved !! Sitrep !! Action !! Volunteer |- |rowspan="4"|Huawei 16 port Gb switch (main office)||rowspan="4"| reposition away from Helper's desk || longer, 10 m Cat 5e required||- || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| requisitioned || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 01 || rowspan="4"| "freezing" || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Additional Member Use PC (main office) redeployed Old Train 05 || rowspan="4"| unreliable boot from SATA HDD || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| hardware testing required- || style="color:#ee3900;"| required || Rod |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"|Train 01 || rowspan="4"| - ||-||- || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - ||style="color:red;"| - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || |- | - || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" | - || style="color:#ee3900;" | - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| ||rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="4"| || rowspan="4"| || - || - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- - || #005900 - || || - || - || - || || |- |rowspan="4"|Old Train 11||rowspan="4"| powers up for only<br/> a few seconds ||1 power supply tester ||style="color:#ee3900;"| OK only intermittently || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || || Rod |- | 2 alternate power supply ||style="color:red;"|fails to start|| - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 3 revert to original power supply || style="color:green;"|runs normally || - || style="color:red;" |intermittent & unreliable || style="color:#ee3900;" | set asside as spares || Rod |- | - || - || - || - || - || |- |rowspan="5"|Old Train 13||rowspan="5"| persistent, annoying, <br/> random video flicker ||1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | 2.flash upgrade BIOS to F6 level || style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod || |- |3 run memtest || style="color:#ee3900;"| one faulty cell at 991 MB in '''one only''' of 6 passes || - || style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || Rod |- | |1 set CMOS to "failsafe defaults" ||style="color:#ee3900;"| no change || - ||style="color:#ee3900;"| unresolved || - || |- | || - || - || - || - || - || |} == Table == {| class="wikitable" |+''Equipment Issues'' !Device !!Problem !!Tests !!Results !!Prognosis !!Helper| |} {| |+ |- |Old Train 11 |||| power supply tester || erratic || || Rod align="bottom" style="color:#e76700;"| {| class="wikitable" !colspan="6"|Shopping List |- |rowspan="2"|Bread & Butter |Pie |Buns |Danish |colspan="2"|Croissant |- {| style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #000" |!colspan="5"|"Old Train 11'' | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| |- |rowspan="3"| | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| *power supply tester | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"| OK only intermittently | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px"; "color:#e76700;" |set asside as spares | style="border-style: solid; border-width: 1px";Rod |} == Templates == '''this is it''' -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ;def:definition list ;:def:definition list == AF Drives == == For General Users == === Overview === Advanced Format (AF) Hard Disk Drives are used in many pre-built computers and USB drives from about 2011 onwards.. By way of explanation *AF drives have 4 kB hard sectors in lieu of *the traditional 512 B sectors ==== Advantages ==== *much faster (less disk overhead) *more space efficient (larger disk capacity from same hardware) *overcomes immutable capacity limit of ~2.19 TeraByte for conventional drives ==== Disadvantages ==== *Windows 32 bit systems cannot boot from AF drives **requires driver from HDD manufacturer, to use as data only internal drives No action is required by the typical purchaser, because the manufacturer will have taken care of the special formatting required with AF drives. ''Getting Technical'' below, provides guidelines for those needing to: *repartition drives *install new, "bare" drives * == Getting Technical == === Advanced Format Drives === New HDD from about 2011 onwards are likely to be Advance Formatted *usually pre-formatted *likely to be stated on drive or packaging *essential for drives over 2.1 TeraByte capacity *has been used on new drives as small as 250GB Avoid reformatting drives to MBR *performance loss of up to 40% if reformatted MBR *requires special procedure - see "Strictly for Geeks" below . A new type of partition table called Globally Unique Identifier(GUID) Partition Table (GPT) is required to optimise the performance of AF disks. The partition table previously in common use has no univerwsally agreed name but is given the nomenclature Master Boot Record (MBR), because that was a unique feature of it. Legacy partitioning tools do not handle GPT. A suitable tool for intermediate users is "parted" or its GUI front-end "gparted". The simplest way to use these is from a bootable utility CD http://www.sysresccd.org/Download http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=downloads === Altering Partitions === It is not advisable to delete or alter patitions of type ef01 or ef02, because these have a special purpose in GPT. Other partitions may be re-sized or added, as required. Note that: *all partitons in GPT are Primary *up to 128 primaries are permitted *GPT has no concept of "Extended" or "Logical" partitions. *partition type numbers sometimes differ from those used with MBR partition tables A compleat description of GPT is available at: http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk === New Drives === The full capacity of Drives over 2.1 TB can be utilised only via recent mainboards or add-on SATA controllers *support for SATA 3 (aka 6 Gb/sec) is required The boot flag in GPT does *not* make a disk bootable from a BIOS mainboard. See the procedures at: http://www.sysresccd.org/Sysresccd-Partitioning-EN-The-new-GPT-disk-layout == Strictly for Geeks == === Capacity === The international standard for data capacity uses multipliers of 2 ^ 10 in lieu of SI decimal multipliers of 10 ^ 3 eg *kiB = 1024 Bytes *kB = 1000 Bytes through *TiB = 2.198 TB Why does this matter ? #drives have always had sectors that are multiples of kiB #*0.5 kiB for conventional HDD #*2 kiB for CD & some Magneto Optics #*4 kiB for AF drives #*32 kiB for DVD #advanced formatting tools allocate partitions in MiB, GiB, TiB increments #*partition sizes will be reported larger by older OS #*formatted capacity of a drive will be somewhat '''less''' than manufacturer's nameplate rating, which is usually in decimal #advanced formatting tools might align partitions on MiB boundaries #*helps optimise performance === Tools === A more capable partitioning tool is required to set up the advanced features of GPT. The partitioning tool '''gdisk''' is downloadable from http://www.rodsbooks.com/gdisk/download.html === Partition Conversion === MBR drives can be converted to GPT partition table, without erasing data, subject to some limitations and risks *essential to backup data & system files *use the "r" menu option in gdisk, followed by "g" *some partition numbers might be changed === Advanced Patitioning Layouts === *non-sequential partition numbering *spaces between partitions *partition alignment on 1 MiB boundaries ==== Re-formatting ==== Drives up to 2.1 TB,manufactured during the transitional period, logically divide each 4kB sector into eight 512 B sectors *permits partitioning using legacy programs *deprecated because doing so can decrease performance up to 40% **essential for boot drives in Windows 32 bit systems AF drives that are re-formatted to MBR might behave unreliably unless expert options in gdisk are used *see "z" menu option == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt/ #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == Firewalls == == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering v Router === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only == Firewalls == Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via phone line If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers" ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required Selection A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] Configuration *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Packet-Filtering v Router == a perenniel question is whether it is preferable to run a packet-filtering style firewall on '''each''' workstation/laptop/pocket-PC or to use a '''single''' "hardware" router to protect the whole LAN === Packet-Filtering === ==== Advantages ==== *no additional hardware, cost, wattage *zero acreage ==== Disadvantages ==== *generally less "hardened" **many more background prolcesses need to be running to support user apps == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default **but '''check''' *efficacy likely to be similar **based on iptables **may also include ip6tables and ebtables *administrative interface specific to distribution **"Guarddog" in KDE provides consistent interface == Mac OSX == citation needed == Windows == citation needed === Gateway/Router === Although these are typically a separate hardware item they are not necessarily an '''additional''' hardware item, often being combined with an ethernet switch and/or DSL modem ==== Advantages ==== *generally more "hardened" **by eliminating many background prolcesses that are not needed to support user apps *'''single''' point of installation, configuration and update ==== Disadvantages ==== *possible additional hardware, cost, wattage *update support for commercial units is typically infrequent and limited-term zero acreage == Linux == Most Linux include a packet-filtering style firewall *usually activated, by default == Gateway/Router == == For General Users == The relative advantages of a separate gateway/router are discussed at A packaged commercial uint is the most suitable option *ADSL modem/router for ADSL users *"broadband" roiuter for other connection types **as of 2012, a router for dial-up connections appears to be unavailable == Disadvantages == *generally regarded as "abandon-ware" by manufacturers - typically **updates are not announced **only a few updates provided **for about three years only *firewalling functions eg SPI, often default to DISABLED **apparently to ensure that it "just works" **ensure that these functions are re-configured to ENABLED == Recommendations == A commerical uint that overcomes the above disadvantages ''at a price'' is the FritzBox *available from http://www.internode.on.net *note that the upmarket model is required to support IPv6 A much lower pirced unit is the DLink DIR-615 *this is a broadband router only (no modem) == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the support limitations of commercial units, although until recently this has been at a cost of: *acreage *wattage *additional terminology Most DIY units have been based on superceded PC. Additional hardware will be required: *modem (if not provided by ISP as modem or Set Top Box) *ethernet switch (unless only one computer will be accessing the Internet) *WiFi Access Point **if required **might be implemented as a PCI/PCIe WiFi card in the routing PC ==== Hardware ==== Minimum suggested specs are approximately *CPU - any X86 compatible of 333 Mhz or faster **ARM CPU may now be viable in lieu x86 compatible see "Strictly for Geeks" below *RAM - 256 MB **additional functions, particularly caching, require extra RAM *storage - 2 GB **effective caching requires several GB more disk space *network interfaces **PCI, PCIe or USB-Ethernet required **10 Mb/s suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed Wattage for DIY has been somewhat higher than for commerical routers. A suitable objective, using 2010 or later componentry is 25 W. Lower wattage units are addressed under "Strictly for Geeks" below. CPU wattage is a poor indicator because other chips and peripherals consume somewhat more. Suggested basis for low wattage router: #HP Proliant Microserver #mainboards based on C50 CPU - which appears to have been used only in netbooks #mainboards based on E350 CPU #mainboards based on Atom CPU are something of an enigma #*can be the lowest cost available but #*wattage surprisingly high, because of associated chips #mainboards based on VIA CPU #*expensive unless s/hand #*not particularly low wattage #mainboards based on Pentium III CPU #*reliability might be reduced because of age #*zero cost & acceptable wattage ==== Software ==== Many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, but it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people ==== Zoning ==== Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == DIY routers based on ARM CPU have become viable during 2012. #have potential to match commerical routers in wattage and acreage #*whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates #require more careful matching of hardware and software #*ARM compilations are not as "portable" as x86 compilations #**advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation #raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] #*IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for it #*alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it == Rescue CD == == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === A computer which fails to start as far as the login screen (or "Safe Mode" in the case of Windows) might have a mal-configured bootloader. Such condition can result following routine software updates. The following CD can sometimes succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive. Success rate varies between the rescue CD, as described below. Some can deal with greater mal-configuration of the installed system(s) than others. *rEFInd *Supergrub 1.98 *custom Grub rescue CD All can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 1.98 One of the Grub rescue CD would be required for older computers #a custom Grub rescue CD, as the name implies, must be custom built for a particular compter #*as descrbied in Getting Technical, below #*many users would require assistance to do so #The other CD are downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.6.0/refind-cd-0.6.0.zip/download #*http://download.berlios.de/supergrub/super_grub_disk_hybrid-1.98s1.iso #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup, at the early stage of reboot and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #*Setup is initiated by pressing Del key on most computers. #*brand name computers tend to use the F2 key instead #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd or a custom Grub rescue CD should find all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets more technical. As described below. Some prior preparation can increase the success rate of rEFInd on newer computers == Getting Technical == == UEFI Mainboards == Computers manufactured from 2011 onwards are likely to use UEFI firmware in lieu of BIOS firmware on the mainboard *identication of boot entities on these computers is generally more reliable than with BIOS *the "boot order" setting in UEFI firmware can include software entities such as boot managers/loaders as well as hardware entities such as HDD, CD/DVD, USB, SD devices **the Windows bootloader should already be included in the boot order by the system supplier, if the system includes Windows === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of rEFInd CD from #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/ #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD, which should produce a display of icons, one for each boot manager/loader #*including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #*icons for each Linux boot loader or bootable kernel image #use arrow keys to highlight the required OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, if only the first stage of the boot loader is misconfigured #if no icons are displayed, or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode #*in this situation, follow the procedures for BIOS mainboards under later heading === Create Bootable Entities === In order for this rescue mechanism to work Linux must *have been installed to a boot disk : **partitioned using GPT partition table and **having an ESP partition (type ef00) formatted '''FAT 32''' (ideally as partition 1) *be using a kernel that has the "EFI stub-loader" compiled in ** mainstream kernels from 3.3 onwards typically do #as user "root" use "cp -a" to copy the current "vmlinuz-n.n.n" and matching "initrd-n.n.n" to the root directory of the ESP partition #*the files must be '''copied''' because FAT 32 does not support Linux style linking #rename the "vmlinuz" to have a dotefi extension #*FAT 32 is not, strictly speaking, case sensitive #*the "initrd" file retains any existing extension #**or no extension, as the case may be **many distro give and expect it to have a dotgz extension #reboot the computer and enter mainboard setup mode #the UEFI reference implementation includes facility for directly editing the boot order #*if this option is available, amend boot order to include the kernel that was added to ESP root directory above #*if this option is not available, then the rEFInd CD can be used for emergency boot, as in the following step #the rEFInd CD should now be ablt to boot kernel images directly, including when the Linux bootloader is broken or mis-configured == BIOS Mainboards == === Disk Order === Booting Linux from a separate HDD will be much more reliable if it is put on the '''first''' HDD that is identified by the BIOS *contrary to 20th century notions, Windows XP and later do '''not''' need to be on the first HDD, nor indeed on the first primary partition *many BIOS default IDE HDD '''ahead''' of SATA HDD in the boot order **interchanging HDD logically in the BIOS settings is likely to cause ongoing boot failures. **ie use either two IDE or two SATA HDD and not a mixture, if Windows is to be booted on one of the disks. === Quick Fix === #download the latest release of a utility/rescue CD, which do a good job of providing a generic boot CD eg: #**Parted Magic #* #**Systemrescue #burn this CD to optical media or as a bootable USB device #boot this CD and select an option to boot from local hard disk #*precise menu path will vary between rescue CD #*a menu of bootable OS should be displayed #**including an icon for the Windows loader (if Windows is on the system) and #**including each installed Linux, notwithstanding that the boot loader on HDD might be "broken" #use arrow keys to highlight the require OS and press "Enter" #*Windows should still be bootable and some Linux may also be, "matched pairs" of kernel and initrd can be located #if no bootable options are found then mainboard or HDD hardware problems , or the system boots to (faulty) boot entities on the HDD, then the mainboard is not truely booting in UEFI mode === Grub Rescue CD === GRUB-legacy and GRUB2 have provisions for making bootable GRUB CD (actually ISO images, from which a CD may be burnt) *the command to create the ISO image is less much complicated in GRUB2 It is diffcult to create a generic boot CD because GRUB looks for particular hard disk drives, partition numbers, kernal images and initrd images that are specified in its configuration file *nevertheless, downloadable r *if a a custom rescue CD is required for a specific PC then using the /boot/grub2/grub.cfg file from the PC to be booted is a useful starting point #read the outine of process that is provided by via the command "info grub" #*the GRUB routine to be used is "mkrescue" #create a folder to hold the contents of files to be used for the image #*a subdirectory off /boot would keep all boot routines in a single area, although it requires root privilleges #*$mkdir ISO #*$mkdir -p ISO/boot/grub2 #*$cp -a /boot/grub2/* ISO/boot/grub2/ #*edit the file ISO/boot/grub2/grub.cfg to remove references to specific kernel versions #* eg linux /vmlinuz-3.4.6-12 becomes /vmlinuz #*/initrd-3.4.6-12 becomes /initrd #*check that your distribution has created the logical links vmlinuz & initrd. If not, then create them manually to point to the current kernel & initrd #*if this has to be done manually, then it will need to be repeated after each kernel update, to ensure that the rescue CD will continue to sucessfully boot from HDD #*any menu items for Windows should work unchanged #*grub2 has scope for much "eye candy" #**which can usefully give the menu from the rescue CD a different appearance from that of the HDD boot #**simplest change to implement is that of background colour #***likely to require changes in grub.cfg as well as the themes script in sub-directory.ISO/boot/grub/<distro name>/themes.txt #if a background.png is implemented then save a copy of the original an edit background colour in GIMP etc #if there appears to be no background image, then background colour can be changed to a desired value, specified via either RGB or HTML colour values #*save the modified file(S) #'''from the parent directory of ISO''', invoke the command to create the ISO image #*$grub2-mkrescue -o grub.iso ISO #**the prefix varies with distro #**see distro specific notes below #burn the ISO image to a CDRW or "DD" it to USB stick #*a USB memory device will provide '''much faster''' iterative testing of the rescue "CD" #*test and iteratively modify the ISO image #*it can be difficult to differentiate between booting from HDD and CD, if the background colour change is not "taking" #**one option is to add a dummy menu item to one boot method #put the final, tested image on a CD or USB device. === Distribution specific notes === #openSUSE postfixes all grub 2 related material with "2" #**default folder becomes /boot/grub2 #**commands become eg grub2-mkrescue #openSUSE invokes the command "xorriso" to create the ISO image from a script or at CLI #**this command is in package "libburnia-tools, which is not installed by default #openSUSE has long had a bunch of perl scripts which take control of the bootloader configuration and which will quickly overwrite any changes made to /boot/grub/grub.cfg #**any customisation is best confined to the rescue CD working directory . #YMMV with other distributions [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] == Projector == == Overview == The projector in PCUG Training Room is set up for optimal use with the Trainer's PC, that is also provided. Anyone planning to give a course or presentation using their own laptop computer is strongly advised to work through these guidelines well in advance and ensure that their laptop is working with external displays. *output to external display enabled **need to bring own Displayport-to-VGA-F or Displayport-to-HDMI-F adapter for high-end notebooks, including Macbooks *appropriate resolution **optimum for projector is any of 1280 x 800, 1280 x 768, 1024 x 768 **higher resolutions give poor quality display on the projector **Windows XP or 7 require the '''same''' resolution on both laptop internal screen and projector *appropriate screen "layout" **most OS default to "Extend Display" (putting the second display (projector) to the right of main display) **appropriate for desktop situations with dual monitors to provide larger working display **'''not''' usually appropriate for presentations where the requirement is to "Clone/Duplicate" the same screen to two displays Up to three settings might might neeed to be changed to have a notebook computer display output via its external video connector. The following description is, of necessity, generic because of variations between different hardware and operating systems. Refer to the User's Guide for the notebook, if necessary, for specific guidance regarding the following settings : Manuals for many models may be downloaded from he following site http://www.laptopmanual.net/ == Procedures == === Connect Video Cable === #contemporary Operating Systems dynamicallly configure video devices #ensure that video cable between note/netbook and external display is connected before proceeding #*HDMI cables are the simplest to connect and provide the best quality, if the computer has relevant output socket #**if a DVI-HDMI adapter must be used then this must be connected with both devices powered '''OFF''' #*older devices may be connected via VGA cable === Enable External Video Output in the BIOS === #power up or reboot the notebook and press the key/keystroke sequence required to enter Setup mode #*known sequences for various devices: #**Dell - press F2 at start-up #**manyothers - press Del at start-up #find any options for external video output. #*not all notebooks have BIOS settings for this because many have the external video permanently enabled at hardware level #*note also that this setting is usually not related to "docking station" on larger notebooks ie external video should work regardless of whether or not use of a docking station is enabled. #*ensure that any option for external video is "enabled" #Save, then exit Setup === Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card === #note that this is done at Operating System level #*If more than one Operating System is installed then boot to the one which will be used with the external display. #typically the ''second'' display is configured by invoking "Control Panel" and selecting the option "Display" The exact nomenclature is operating system dependent #*if there is an on-screen button labelled "identify displays" or equivalent, then left-click on that #**a "1" appearing on the inbuilt LCD display indicates that the external display will be the '''second''' display #**proceed to configure the display other than the inbuilt LCD #it is better to pick conservative settings if the notebook will be used at various locations with different external display devices #*most notebooks, including those having wide-screen inbuilt LCD displays, can have the external display set for conventional 4:3 ratio and that will provide the most flexible arrangement. #**resolution 1024 x 768 #**vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #*the above settings are also safe for most LCD monitors. Higher settings might not work and might also damage the device. #the main Training Room projector, for example, does handle widescreen modes. It works best with the following settings: #*resolution 1280 x 800 #*vertical refresh rate 60 Hz #there will probably be an option to setup "multiple monitors" #*within this option select "clone" or equivalent in order to have the full screen sent to both displays #*Windows will operate multiple displays at identical resolutions #*other Operating System should adjust the image sent to the two displays automatically, to cater for differing aspect ratios and resolutions. # Save the settings and exit Control Panel. === Use External Power Supply === #the external video display will add to the power drain of the notebook and may discharge the battery much more quickly. Plug in and power up the external power supply for the notebook, if available #*if the external power supply is not available, then do not activate the external display, as per next step, for prolonged periods === Activate Output to External Display/Projector === #on most notebooks this is achieved by pressing a keystroke combination. Known combinations: #* Dell combination is Fn ''simultaneously'' with F8 #although a notebook will accept this change at any time, whilst running, many OS require a subsequent re-boot, in order to recognise a second display #each time the combination is pressed, the notebook switches to the next of the three options: #*internal LCD only #*external display only #*internal LCD plus external display #note that if the external display, in particular, is in "sleep" mode, then it may take 5 to 10 seconds to respond the the input signal. Therefore, wait at least 10 seconds between ''each'' press of the keystroke combination and check whether the external display responds. === Repeat Display Configuration for other Operating Systems === #''Configure the ''Second'' Display/Monitor/Video card'' is the only setting which is Operating System dependent #*that procedure may be repeated for other Operating Systems, if desired, after output to the external display has been successfully achieved with the first Operating System == Additional Issues with Training Room Projector == Some further notes regarding the projector in the Training Room. # Video Cables #*preferably use the HDMI cable that is now provided #**Some modern notebooks have DVI connector only and Apple brand notebooks may have a different connector again. Users would need to bring their own adapter. #*a VGA cable is also connected to the projector, for use with older computers #**it may be necessary to by-pass the VGA splitter #Remote #*use the menu on the remote control of the projector to select which input (HDMI or VGA) is in use #**this function is '''not''' automatic #the projector has been known to mis-interpret apparently valid resolutions and either truncate the display or not display at all. If difficulty is experienced, then: #*try connecting the notebook to a CRT display (which are generally more tolerant of resolutions) at the Centre and try to ascertain whether the notebook is actually putting signal to the external display connector. #*if so, then revisit "Control Panel" and check that the settings for the second display are as above. #*in some scenarios the only solution might be to work with the truncated display on the projector and rely on the notebook's LCD screen for the bottom few rows #**with most Operating Systems the "task bar" can temporarily be repositioned at top of screen, to minimise inconvenience in this scenario == ISO Hybrids == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised, which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in ntermediate procedures above. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} == Printing == == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (wisely) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administratin tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is correct) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) === Printer Recommendations === *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript == Scanning == == Raspberry Pi == === Cases === ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case" does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is at [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ == Arduino == ===For General Users=== The Arduino is an interface between a controlling PC and stuff you want to control. A set of links that should get inexperienced users started is below. Power arduino from battery http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4258 Great hardware selection http://www.pololu.com http://www.freetronics.com/ oz hardware site http://www.robotgear.com.au arduino home http://www.arduino.cc/ arduino software http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software Language Reference http://arduino.cc/en/Reference/HomePage Lots of different boards such as https://shop.ruggedcircuits.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23 Simon Monk as written everal books toget you started. The code from his books can be downloaded from here http://www.arduinobook.com/downloads --[[--[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:15, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 3dfaa170d7a959a1fc7e1993b4d5c265f7490559 1134 1133 2014-01-07T20:39:24Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">'''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *partition refers to location of /boot for the operating system to be booted **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. Press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 5653c620ecc28b56c1d67437cc9ca36425a5a313 1135 1134 2014-01-07T21:35:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *partition refers to location of /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been broughtto ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that was to add the following in the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. Similarly, a static grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ddc4c0f57401600abae8c40bddd6b0f78825212b 1136 1135 2014-01-07T22:26:11Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *partition refers to location of /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. ==== Manual Install ==== Distro run many scripts to provide GUI interface to bootloader configuration. If these are failing either initially or following kernel updates, then the most reliable process is a manually '''installed''' and '''configured''' GRUB 2. Details will differ between distro. For openSUSE: **<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' this procedure initially removes all bootloaders, including that for Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> #copy the existing boot menu file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg to a different location eg in /root #Yast2->System->Bootloader *set bootloader type to "do not install any bootloader" **accept all the warnings **press OK to complete #from root's command prompt: <nowiki># grub2-install /dev/sd(x)</nowiki> Notes *installation to a second HDD eg /dev/sdb, would avoid overwriting bootloader on /dev/sda *default location of boot code will become /boot/grub2 on the currently booted system **generally suitable but see info grub2 to change location. Write a static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries. Each menuentry has the syntax between the ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### section markers in http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#Menu_mode above Such basic menu works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#.22on-the-fly.22_Mode *press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 23a3a8f981ca69a4304308c69e8f10b779b625ec 1137 1136 2014-01-07T22:30:50Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. ==== Manual Install ==== Distro run many scripts to provide GUI interface to bootloader configuration. If these are failing either initially or following kernel updates, then the most reliable process is a manually '''installed''' and '''configured''' GRUB 2. Details will differ between distro. For openSUSE: **<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' this procedure initially removes all bootloaders, including that for Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> #copy the existing boot menu file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg to a different location eg in /root #Yast2->System->Bootloader *set bootloader type to "do not install any bootloader" **accept all the warnings **press OK to complete #from root's command prompt: <nowiki># grub2-install /dev/sd(x)</nowiki> Notes *installation to a second HDD eg /dev/sdb, would avoid overwriting bootloader on /dev/sda *default location of boot code will become /boot/grub2 on the currently booted system **generally suitable but see info grub2 to change location. Write a static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries. Each menuentry has the syntax between the ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### section markers in http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#Menu_mode above Such basic menu works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#.22on-the-fly.22_Mode *press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 02c9145fcf06913a453566a974cf70ce1666fbed 1143 1137 2014-01-08T00:14:14Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 0e814ac2886caf05cf7b0d8093cf4a87fec0e202 0 161 1138 772 2014-01-07T22:44:46Z Rpeters 14 added work-arounds for grub 2 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. == Headline text == == == Headline text == == e763cd3e7aa69a89a71772cb310a0a330de02ae1 1139 1138 2014-01-07T22:56:55Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. == Strictly for Geeks == ==== Manual Install ==== Distro run many scripts to provide GUI interface to bootloader configuration. If these are failing either initially or following kernel updates, then the most reliable process is a manually '''installed''' and '''configured''' GRUB 2. Details will differ between distro. For openSUSE: **<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' this procedure initially removes all bootloaders, including that for Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> #copy the existing boot menu file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg to a different location eg in /root #Yast2->System->Bootloader *set bootloader type to "do not install any bootloader" **accept all the warnings **press OK to complete #from root's command prompt: <nowiki># grub2-install /dev/sd(x)</nowiki> Notes *installation to a second HDD eg /dev/sdb, would avoid overwriting bootloader on /dev/sda *default location of boot code will become /boot/grub2 on the currently booted system **generally suitable but see info grub2 to change location. #Write a static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries. Each menuentry has the syntax between the ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### section markers in [[http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode]] above Such basic menu works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#.22on-the-fly.22_Mode *press 'e' to edit an entry. 562507645f33608b1fc6b617ce6718f4f54c5758 1140 1139 2014-01-07T23:19:42Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. == Strictly for Geeks == ==== Manual Install ==== Distro run many scripts to provide GUI interface to bootloader configuration. If these are failing either initially or following kernel updates, then the most reliable process is a manually '''installed''' and '''configured''' GRUB 2. Details will differ between distro. For openSUSE: ::<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' this procedure initially removes all bootloaders, including that for Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> #copy the existing boot menu file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg to a different location eg in /root #Yast2->System->Bootloader #*set bootloader type to "do not install any bootloader" #**accept all the warnings #**press OK to complete #from root's command prompt: #:<nowiki># grub2-install /dev/sd(x)</nowiki> #;Notes #*installation to a second HDD eg /dev/sdb, would avoid overwriting bootloader on /dev/sda #*default location of boot code will become /boot/grub2 on the currently booted system #**generally suitable but see info grub2 to change location. #: #Write a static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries. Each menuentry has the syntax between the ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### section markers in [[http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode]] above Such basic menu works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#.22on-the-fly.22_Mode *press 'e' to edit an entry. ff213d81be5c0406b9ccd39762d82bf0576f9e93 1141 1140 2014-01-07T23:45:13Z Rpeters 14 added work-arounds for GRUB 2 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot ;Notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It fails to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Then manually run <nowiki>#grub2-mkconfig</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE :The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. :This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. :Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. == Strictly for Geeks == ==== Manual Install ==== Distro run many scripts to provide GUI interface to bootloader configuration. If these are failing either initially or following kernel updates, then the most reliable process is a manually '''installed''' and '''configured''' GRUB 2. Details will differ between distro. For openSUSE: ::<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' this procedure initially removes all bootloaders, including that for Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> #copy the existing boot menu file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg to a different location eg in /root #Yast2->System->Bootloader #*set bootloader type to "do not install any bootloader" #**accept all the warnings #**press OK to complete #from root's command prompt: #:<nowiki># grub2-install /dev/sd(x)</nowiki> #;Notes #*installation to a second HDD eg /dev/sdb, would avoid overwriting bootloader on /dev/sda #*default location of boot code will become /boot/grub2 on the currently booted system #**generally suitable but see info grub2 to change location. #: #Write a static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries. Each menuentry has the syntax between the ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### section markers in [[Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode | Menu Mode]] above Such basic menu works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in[[Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode | Menu Mode]] *press 'e' to edit an entry. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2eeac8bfab927d7cfd6e8b8edfaae4fe050c84e2 1142 1141 2014-01-07T23:46:36Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot ;Notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It fails to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Then manually run <nowiki>#grub2-mkconfig</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE ;Notes :The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. :This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. :Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. == Strictly for Geeks == ==== Manual Install ==== Distro run many scripts to provide GUI interface to bootloader configuration. If these are failing either initially or following kernel updates, then the most reliable process is a manually '''installed''' and '''configured''' GRUB 2. Details will differ between distro. For openSUSE: ::<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' this procedure initially removes all bootloaders, including that for Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> #copy the existing boot menu file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg to a different location eg in /root #Yast2->System->Bootloader #*set bootloader type to "do not install any bootloader" #**accept all the warnings #**press OK to complete #from root's command prompt: #:<nowiki># grub2-install /dev/sd(x)</nowiki> #;Notes #*installation to a second HDD eg /dev/sdb, would avoid overwriting bootloader on /dev/sda #*default location of boot code will become /boot/grub2 on the currently booted system #**generally suitable but see info grub2 to change location. #: #Write a static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries. Each menuentry has the syntax between the ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### section markers in [[Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode | Menu Mode]] above Such basic menu works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in[[Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode | Menu Mode]] *press 'e' to edit an entry. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 054e8e4e05f06cbb342ac234f5d3411500c24fd8 0 178 1144 947 2014-01-12T04:35:35Z Prichter 15 /* What is Windows 8? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8.1 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8. If you are still using Windows XP, it's good to plan to move on well before April next year (2014) when Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP, but that still gives you time to watch how Windows 8 beds down. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' == An addition from Canberra about Windows 8 protection inclusion == Windows 8 comes with Windows Defender built in. Defender incorporates Early Launch Antimalware (ELAM) protection, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Secure Boot, Bootkit Detection and anti-virus protection. Defender will disable itself if you install another antivirus suite. This is to stop multiple (often conflicting) AVs/AMWs getting underfoot. To find the management window, tap the Windows key and type Defender on the screen. Updates are vigorous (almost daily). [[Category:Technical Info]] 93cb1d5bd772e55552df5ae2975543dcd1b30734 1145 1144 2014-01-12T04:38:48Z Prichter 15 /* Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8.1 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8.1. If however you are still using Windows XP, you should plan to move on well before April this year (2014) when [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Windows_XP_End_of_Life Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP]. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' == An addition from Canberra about Windows 8 protection inclusion == Windows 8 comes with Windows Defender built in. Defender incorporates Early Launch Antimalware (ELAM) protection, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Secure Boot, Bootkit Detection and anti-virus protection. Defender will disable itself if you install another antivirus suite. This is to stop multiple (often conflicting) AVs/AMWs getting underfoot. To find the management window, tap the Windows key and type Defender on the screen. Updates are vigorous (almost daily). [[Category:Technical Info]] 6d6e10d362c73de39673e7a440c98225482999b0 1146 1145 2014-01-12T04:39:09Z Prichter 15 /* What is Windows 8? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8.1 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8.1 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8.1. If however you are still using Windows XP, you should plan to move on well before April this year (2014) when [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Windows_XP_End_of_Life Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP]. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' == An addition from Canberra about Windows 8 protection inclusion == Windows 8 comes with Windows Defender built in. Defender incorporates Early Launch Antimalware (ELAM) protection, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Secure Boot, Bootkit Detection and anti-virus protection. Defender will disable itself if you install another antivirus suite. This is to stop multiple (often conflicting) AVs/AMWs getting underfoot. To find the management window, tap the Windows key and type Defender on the screen. Updates are vigorous (almost daily). [[Category:Technical Info]] 1612041d83ae0096acfea3a11d9202ad557c1ba6 1147 1146 2014-01-12T04:39:54Z Prichter 15 /* If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8.1 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8.1 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8.1. If however you are still using Windows XP, you should plan to move on well before April this year (2014) when [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Windows_XP_End_of_Life Microsoft will stop issuing security updates for Windows XP]. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8.1. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' == An addition from Canberra about Windows 8 protection inclusion == Windows 8 comes with Windows Defender built in. Defender incorporates Early Launch Antimalware (ELAM) protection, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Secure Boot, Bootkit Detection and anti-virus protection. Defender will disable itself if you install another antivirus suite. This is to stop multiple (often conflicting) AVs/AMWs getting underfoot. To find the management window, tap the Windows key and type Defender on the screen. Updates are vigorous (almost daily). [[Category:Technical Info]] dcc8950d725a88987bd418d3bf4072508cb33742 0 197 1148 1056 2014-01-12T04:42:49Z Prichter 15 /* "Cable" */ wikitext text/x-wiki === "Cable" === subscribers to TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL1 service have '''two''' Cat 5 network cables run to their premises *one services plain old telephone (POTS) only **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *the second services Internet '''and''' ''optional'' "WebTV" subscribers need to be careful not to plug equipment into the incorrect socket *has reportedly caused equipment failure TransACT might agree to "underground" these cables, at customer expense === ADSL === TransACT installers wire a fixed "splitter" at customers premises (usually withing the ceiling space) *phone socket usually remains at original location **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *socket for Internet service is wired at location of customer's preference (if practical) **choose location suitable for WiFi coverage, if appliable **also choose location from which wired LAN cables ''could'' be run in "star" topology === NBN === Would conform with NBN practice. See previous section see http://www.transact.com.au for further information --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:36, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 0bc55b44f65bb49a819e68a8b23e60fc51036ac6 1149 1148 2014-01-12T04:50:57Z Prichter 15 /* "Cable" */ wikitext text/x-wiki === "Cable" === Subscribers to TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL1 service have '''two''' Cat 5 network cables run to their premises *one services plain old telephone (POTS) only **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *the second services Internet '''and''' ''optional'' "WebTV" Users need to be careful not to plug equipment into the incorrect socket as this has reportedly caused equipment failures. Note that TransACT are currently (as of 2013/2014) completing their upgrade of areas serviced by VDSL1 to VDSL2. Changes include much higher data rate capabilities and the discontinued use of one of the two pairs of wires run into your premises. Phone services will then become piggy-backed onto the same pair as used by the data only wiring, in much the same way as ADSL uses the same household wiring for phone & data services. TransACT might agree to "underground" these cables, at customer expense. === ADSL === TransACT installers wire a fixed "splitter" at customers premises (usually withing the ceiling space) *phone socket usually remains at original location **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *socket for Internet service is wired at location of customer's preference (if practical) **choose location suitable for WiFi coverage, if appliable **also choose location from which wired LAN cables ''could'' be run in "star" topology === NBN === Would conform with NBN practice. See previous section see http://www.transact.com.au for further information --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:36, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 514af9a618e7c3990470a07dc82a2a91c65c2e52 1150 1149 2014-01-12T04:51:33Z Prichter 15 wikitext text/x-wiki === "Cable" === Subscribers to TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL1 service have '''two''' Cat 5 network cables run to their premises *one services plain old telephone (POTS) only **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *the second services Internet '''and''' ''optional'' "WebTV" Users need to be careful not to plug equipment into the incorrect socket as this has reportedly caused equipment failures. Note that TransACT are currently (as of 2013/2014) completing their upgrade of areas serviced by VDSL1 to VDSL2. Changes include much higher data rate capabilities and the discontinued use of one of the two pairs of wires run into your premises. Phone services will then become piggy-backed onto the same pair as used by the data only wiring, in much the same way as ADSL uses the same household wiring for phone & data services. TransACT might agree to "underground" these cables, at customer expense. === ADSL === TransACT installers wire a fixed "splitter" at customers premises (usually withing the ceiling space) *phone socket usually remains at original location **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *socket for Internet service is wired at location of customer's preference (if practical) **choose location suitable for WiFi coverage, if appliable **also choose location from which wired LAN cables ''could'' be run in "star" topology === NBN === Would conform with NBN practice. See previous section see http://www.transact.com.au for further information --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:36, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] b139bd5684080af9182843608a170e54b8b016bd 0 1 1151 1008 2014-01-12T22:16:35Z Bje 40 /* News and Notices */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices. == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Scams]] == Scams, especially via email, but also via social media, are an ongoing problem and constantly changing. This page includes a variety of helpful information and resources. == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. 7d568cb95be106d27cb1b94dc68d6b8b9ab94bba 0 137 1152 1101 2014-01-22T03:47:21Z Gjpotts 16 /* SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html Thanks. Help Desk ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] f5f3fc65e984e3b5ce5643bb1d42435783d2b0ff 1158 1152 2014-01-30T23:26:36Z Lpb 2 /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ Add latest spam examples wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] e3b2d7ed2aa088d181ea056abb6b59fc750b4b88 1160 1158 2014-01-31T00:41:50Z Lpb 2 /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ yet another scam email wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], bit also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness, The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 54e2b9e5458e4f4d0fd0b1021ce0adac8bf13156 1161 1160 2014-01-31T01:11:19Z Lpb 2 Fix minor typos wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 83f56919a5f7d3c2ae466eb1e812143a1256eb4d 1163 1161 2014-02-13T00:19:32Z Lpb 2 /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ Add latest example wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 0a7e24b0b4739b09c347cf10b9e8237f58428c70 2 62 1162 266 2014-02-09T05:15:04Z Akabaila 11 wikitext text/x-wiki My Niks are Al or OldAl, which is more colourful - and more informative. d03b65ee9ffff54630c76af2e3fb6da0cfd52b07 0 75 1164 1023 2014-02-15T00:51:45Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki '''PLEASE NOTE THAT (AS OF Jan 2014) PCUG NO LONGER OFFERS HOSTING''' When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs and is quite affordable. ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) and Mac (at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-macosx.html).. all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. One last cautionary thing. The server that you set up at home is not connected to the internet, so, to that extent, it is private. But if the computer that it is installed on is connected to the internet, there could be a way for someone to see what you are doing. The systems noted above provide information about preserving privacy. Please read their instructions and take the necessary precautions. [[Category:Technical Info]] caefd6de2df34c5adc07b0310849900ab8adc298 1165 1164 2014-02-17T08:42:53Z Pblair 10 /* The learning curve */ wikitext text/x-wiki '''PLEASE NOTE THAT (AS OF Jan 2014) PCUG NO LONGER OFFERS HOSTING''' When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs and is quite affordable. ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. PCUG alone hosts more than 30 users. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) and Mac (at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-macosx.html).. all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. One last cautionary thing. The server that you set up at home is not connected to the internet, so, to that extent, it is private. But if the computer that it is installed on is connected to the internet, there could be a way for someone to see what you are doing. The systems noted above provide information about preserving privacy. Please read their instructions and take the necessary precautions. '''On to Part 2....'''[http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Web_hosting_in_action] [[Category:Technical Info]] c4bdcb5b9c002d1fa555625c6bb02dfe7d179253 0 78 1166 390 2014-02-17T08:44:27Z Pblair 10 /* Action at last! */ wikitext text/x-wiki [[File:Xampp_icon.jpg|left|60px]]When you installed XAMPP it started automatically. But you have reset your computer, and now need to restart XAMPP. You will have a desktop icon, something like this. Click on it to open the Control Panel.[[File:xampp_start.jpg|right|300px]] This is a small part of the Control Panel, the bit that matters. The buttons under 'Actions' will be set at "Start", so click the first 2 (the ones opposite Apache and MySQL) and watch them become active. There will be port numbers displayed, and a green blush on the module names will indicate that everything is working. To check, open a browser and type '''localhost''' in the URL box. You should see the XAMPP welcome screen. However, there is a gotcha here. If you have Skype running, Apache may not activate. This is because they both like to use port 80, and won't play nicely together. The solution is to exit from Skype while you are using XAMPP. ==== Action at last! ==== Let's try some practical things - but first, a few things you need to know. [[File:htdocs.jpg|right||140px]] * The URL of the server is '''localhost''' (or 127.0.0.1) * Your directory tree will have a folder named '''xampp'''. * In that folder will be a sub-folder named '''htdocs'''. All files, scripts and so on that you want to reach by way of a browser are stored in the '''htdocs''' folder * The system will always look for and action any file named 'index' - eg, index.html or index.php, before it does anything else. Let's make the traditional HTML file...open a text editor and type: <html> <head> <title>My first page</title> </head> <body> Hello World! </body> </html> Now to save your file in the '''htdocs''' subfolder. Save it first as ''index.html'' - and to see your work, open your bowser and type '''localhost'''. Now delete index.html, and save the file in htdocs as ''test.html''. To see it now, you point your browser to '''localhost/test.html''' Let's try a PHP script. It doesn't matter that you don't know PHP, I'll provide one. Go back to your text editor and type into a new file: <?php phpinfo(); ?> Save that in '''htdocs''' as ''index.php'' - and then open your browser and type '''localhost'''. This will show you a page (or 6) of the setup information of PHP within XAMPP (or LAMPP). Now delete index.php and resave the file as ''info.php''. Back to your browser, and type '''localhost/info.php''' I'm sure you can see the difference caused by the name change. The real point, though, is to suggest to you to be very wary of the word 'index' in file names! '''On to Part 3...'''[http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/A_real_project] [[Category:Technical Info]] 6430d1b81ccfbe92e7e51ec3a6692720aec9930c 0 157 1167 791 2014-02-18T02:38:06Z Rpeters 14 /* Secure Boot */added procedure for Acer notebooks wikitext text/x-wiki The new technologies being introduced with PC & disk drives manufactured in 2011 and later include the core technology of UEFI firmware and its related technologies: *AF disk drives *GPT disk partitioning *EFI boot routine *Secure Boot (within the UEFI firmware) More detailed guidelines, help and recommendations are available from: http://rodsbooks.com Many mainboards that were manufactured by Intel from 2006 include (U)EFI, but are likely to require upgrading to the latest available firmware release, in order to work reliably with the first three technologies above. Intel provide an ISO image of a bootable CD, which allows the upgrade to be done without Windows. == EFI Boot == The EFI bootloader within UEFI is capable of booting a kernel image directly, provided that the image has an extension of .efi. Getting this working, directly, requires being able to add to the boot entries in the mainboard's setup and this feature is not implemented on all mainboards. After entering the mainboard's setup, folllow the trail: Boot tab -> Boot Priority -> Add entry Workarounds include: #many current Linux installer routines will place an entry for a bootloader (eg grub.efi, although it is likely to be named after the distro) in the mainboard's boot priority list #the rEFInd boot manager from the above site will place an entry for itself in the mainboard's list. #*rEFInd is more flexible, being able to select various boot devices: #** a bootloader such as grub.efi #** a CD or USB boot device or #** a kernel file having .efi extension #*rEFInd also presents an attractive boot menu, having icon-interface EFI boot looks for FAT32 partitions having type code ef00 (type ESP). Contemporary kernel + initrd occupy > 20 MB. An ESP of several hundred MB is advisable if many OS will be installed on the PC or if older kernels are being retained. == Secure Boot == The only reliable way to ensure that Linux will work with a computer that has secure boot is to disable secure boot: The UEFI specification does provide for Secure Boot to be able to be disabled *AMI provide this feature in their UEFI (although hardware makers might not implement it) *Award/Phoenix ? Linux users are advised not to purchase a new computer (desktop or laptop) without first confirming that it will boot Linux (eg from CD Live CD or installed to USB stick) Secure boot '''can''' be disabled on the following models: === Acer Notebooks === #Completely shut down your computer #power up/reboot and press F2 #Use the right arrow key to select Security #Use the down arrow key to highlight Set Supervisor Password and press Enter. #Create a password and press Enter. Retype the password to confirm and press Enter again. #Use the right arrow key to select Boot. #Press the down arrow key to select Secure Boot and press Enter. #With the arrow key, highlight Disabled and press Enter. #Press the F10 key and select Yes to save the changes and exit the BIOS. === Samsung Notebooks === http://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers/samsung/15-notebook-sku-90670/ [Category:Technical Info]] [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]14:03, 18 Freruary 2014 (EST) aad852da4ac416837492e626a46ad730308e190b 1168 1167 2014-02-18T02:54:33Z Rpeters 14 /* Samsung Notebooks */added Samsung notebooks wikitext text/x-wiki The new technologies being introduced with PC & disk drives manufactured in 2011 and later include the core technology of UEFI firmware and its related technologies: *AF disk drives *GPT disk partitioning *EFI boot routine *Secure Boot (within the UEFI firmware) More detailed guidelines, help and recommendations are available from: http://rodsbooks.com Many mainboards that were manufactured by Intel from 2006 include (U)EFI, but are likely to require upgrading to the latest available firmware release, in order to work reliably with the first three technologies above. Intel provide an ISO image of a bootable CD, which allows the upgrade to be done without Windows. == EFI Boot == The EFI bootloader within UEFI is capable of booting a kernel image directly, provided that the image has an extension of .efi. Getting this working, directly, requires being able to add to the boot entries in the mainboard's setup and this feature is not implemented on all mainboards. After entering the mainboard's setup, folllow the trail: Boot tab -> Boot Priority -> Add entry Workarounds include: #many current Linux installer routines will place an entry for a bootloader (eg grub.efi, although it is likely to be named after the distro) in the mainboard's boot priority list #the rEFInd boot manager from the above site will place an entry for itself in the mainboard's list. #*rEFInd is more flexible, being able to select various boot devices: #** a bootloader such as grub.efi #** a CD or USB boot device or #** a kernel file having .efi extension #*rEFInd also presents an attractive boot menu, having icon-interface EFI boot looks for FAT32 partitions having type code ef00 (type ESP). Contemporary kernel + initrd occupy > 20 MB. An ESP of several hundred MB is advisable if many OS will be installed on the PC or if older kernels are being retained. == Secure Boot == The only reliable way to ensure that Linux will work with a computer that has secure boot is to disable secure boot: The UEFI specification does provide for Secure Boot to be able to be disabled *AMI provide this feature in their UEFI (although hardware makers might not implement it) *Award/Phoenix ? Linux users are advised not to purchase a new computer (desktop or laptop) without first confirming that it will boot Linux (eg from CD Live CD or installed to USB stick) Secure boot '''can''' be disabled on the following models: === Acer Notebooks === #Completely shut down your computer #power up/reboot and press F2 #Use the right arrow key to select Security #Use the down arrow key to highlight Set Supervisor Password and press Enter. #Create a password and press Enter. Retype the password to confirm and press Enter again. #Use the right arrow key to select Boot. #Press the down arrow key to select Secure Boot and press Enter. #With the arrow key, highlight Disabled and press Enter. #Press the F10 key and select Yes to save the changes and exit the BIOS. === Samsung Notebooks === #Restart the computer and press 'F2' key 4-5 times to access ‘BIOS Setup’. #Press 'F9' key to initialize the 'BIOS' settings. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. #Restart the computer and immediately begin pressing 'F2' key 4-5 times to access ‘BIOS Setup’. #Go to 'Boot' menu. #Set the 'Secure Boot' option to [Disabled], and set the 'OS Mode Selection' menu to [CSM OS]. #Set the ‘Fast BIOS Mode’ in the ’Advanced’ menu to [Disabled]. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. #Select the 'Boot Device Priority' in the 'Boot' menu then press 'F5' or 'F6' key to move the DVD to top position. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. http://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers/samsung/15-notebook-sku-90670/ [Category:Technical Info]] [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]14:03, 18 Freruary 2014 (EST) c5b17797f20eb8e01eaa6686b7b585a99a27e5fa 0 112 1169 1159 2014-02-21T01:45:56Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 */ update course dates wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin fee of $30 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses. * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. * Modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. * Information will be placed here when finalised. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 216b3148c7089d82a1a899a1bc3f2d18f2124beb 1170 1169 2014-02-21T01:52:56Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets */ title update wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All bookings and enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin fee of $30 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses. * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. * Modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. * Information will be placed here when finalised. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d427b2114b4ad05f6970b5247655993e9896ae9c 1171 1170 2014-02-21T02:22:12Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction */ updating how to book info or e/o wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. * Modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. * Information will be placed here when finalised. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d08f7c5129e60afbee3f3d0d1cd6debd3ba9ca95 1172 1171 2014-02-22T03:26:25Z Krja 9 /* Expressions of Interest */ course booking form link correction wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. * Modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. * Information will be placed here when finalised. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] db908d9f5af54b3b72fbed79e793e16edc0b137d 1173 1172 2014-02-24T01:38:25Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing */ dates & some info wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''''Updating of this information is in progress ...''''' * '''General Info / Introduction''': **Scheduling is underway to deliver this very popular course in a new format. **It is being considered that modules of the course will be offered, so that participant may choose which modules they wish to attend. This format allows for greater flexibility for participants to attend modules with choices of sessions for the same session topic. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the top of this page. *'''Brochure''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 17 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 24 March, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 4: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 5: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 6: Mon 28 April, 2004 == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === *'''ABOUT''': This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''TRAINER''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of PCUG trainers) *'''PARTICIPANTS''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''VENUE''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''FEE''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). *'''WHEN''': This course runs weekly for 6 x 2.0hr sessions, last held in October 2013. *'''BOOKINGS & INFO''': '''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. *'''BROCHURE''': A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 370959a077f4d3ad9744d80bb038d7aafa62802f 1174 1173 2014-02-24T02:45:10Z Offcmngr 6 Updating ABC details wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the top of this page. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 17 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 24 March, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 4: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 5: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 6: Mon 28 April, 2004 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Courses held previously == * If any of these courses interest you, please place an expression of interest. === Absolute Beginners Computing (ABC) === == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and isual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 27 February 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 6 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday; and ** Wed 13 March 2013 0930am and 1200 midday. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $50 (or $30 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Applications:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 96c2f17bb01e10b4aeee43fca89da1ecce22a9ed 1179 1174 2014-03-03T01:35:23Z Offcmngr 6 Adding Excel VBA (PB) details for May2014 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/> Scheduled Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. * Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. * Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * Trainer: Peter Barker * Places: 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * Apply: by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. * Course fee: $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) === Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 17 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 24 March, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 4: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 5: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 6: Mon 28 April, 2004 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 April 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 April 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 April 2014 0930am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 1b01fab3a3c278106e0da55cac5c82ebc4eda2c9 1180 1179 2014-03-03T01:40:22Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 17 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 24 March, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 4: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 5: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 6: Mon 28 April, 2004 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 April 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 April 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 April 2014 0930am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] eda897a71c97650aa17bebd7d6f21c17630abed6 1181 1180 2014-03-03T02:51:01Z Offcmngr 6 /* Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel */ correcting dates wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 17 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 24 March, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 4: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 5: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 6: Mon 28 April, 2004 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b4ce69503097a703e31c95a41da8b41b93dda458 1182 1181 2014-03-07T02:49:52Z Offcmngr 6 /* Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 19 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 26 March 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 02 April 2014 1-3pm'' NO CLASS Wed 12 March ** Session 4: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: DATES Deferred by 2 weeks from original advertising. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] dae02e124dab6bc827df4216e770f66ff85ccbbe 1183 1182 2014-03-12T03:42:45Z Offcmngr 6 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 */ new dates wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Introduction to Spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel 2007 === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 07 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === Introduction to Databases, using Microsoft Access 2007 === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: DATES Deferred by 2 weeks from original advertising. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === Excel: Using Macros and VBA in Excel === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f4373c28e3e2312b26c93b836a1ba7cb65b9d630 1184 1183 2014-03-16T23:50:21Z Offcmngr 6 Clarify Course Titles wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 07 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: DATES Deferred by 2 weeks from original advertising. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL: Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 4cf857a0a0dd035b38b26abf9d9512466d83426a 1185 1184 2014-03-16T23:52:52Z Offcmngr 6 fixed course order for access and excel commencing 9/4 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 07 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] fb953e446ba6b6ecd5311efbff50b63e6650a8ef 1186 1185 2014-03-26T03:33:57Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with an extra half hour at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 600b50a39191e054fc5a874527c7b235a3044d8c 1194 1186 2014-04-05T22:02:47Z Offcmngr 6 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ session length correction in description wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 91ca888cd312826a7707c9b41c9cc08be3eee26c 1209 1194 2014-05-22T23:51:02Z Offcmngr 6 /* Courses for 2014 */ word 2007 nov14 AMeade wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word Databases (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the use of document editing using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade * '''Places''': to be advised (max 10 due for training room facilities). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 9e9b0f0e6c4687a3122ae7b16d5cab58522ca9df 1210 1209 2014-05-23T03:31:44Z Gjpotts 16 /* WORD - Introduction to Word Databases (using Microsoft Word 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the use of document editing using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade * '''Places''': to be advised (max 10 due for training room facilities). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 33eb1bc8045315892b6db87da338957848feae4c 1211 1210 2014-05-26T00:33:45Z Offcmngr 6 /* WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) */ update details per AM wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade * '''Places''': to be advised (max 10 due for training room facilities). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 14267073bf69baf2677fb9d9e4d29869fc1b6c23 1212 1211 2014-05-26T23:51:49Z Offcmngr 6 /* WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) */ about details expanded wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, email and Internet basics. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Mon 31 March, 2014 **Session 2: Mon 07 April, 2014 **Session 3: Mon 14 April, 2014 **Break for Easter **Session 4: Mon 28 April, 2004 **Session 5: Mon 5 May 2014 **Session 6: Mon: 12 May 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] fab235ec0d21a5a0be808c0652aa4d142461634d 1213 1212 2014-05-28T04:48:14Z Mikec 31 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 6cc3c3cd00047dd462dfa4256ad9105e86780869 1214 1213 2014-05-28T04:55:30Z Mikec 31 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 14d1f0b8f04bb83d67aabef6693b9100a1319e6e 1215 1214 2014-05-28T05:09:08Z Mikec 31 Added subject to EOI email link - Mike Cassidy wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] e9d40243a32ffba4fef0b755d86b7ff1c8de7ba9 0 4 1175 1117 2014-02-24T03:04:44Z Offcmngr 6 /* Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services */ revised wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24 February, 2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item date 15 December, 2013''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 19 November 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. * An honoraria is applicable for every successful hire arranged and overseen by a member (just as trainers running PCUG courses may claim honoraria). Details TBA once confirmed by the PCUG Committee. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * We are now looking to prepare our 2014 Training program. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Acting Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == PCUG Christmas & New Year wind-down == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office & Centre COB for 2013 - 2pm Friday 20 December, 2013 * Open For Business: 10am Tuesday 28 January, 2014 <br/>Business will resume after the Australia Day Long weekend. * PCUG is closed for the Xmas & New Year Period from Saturday 21 December, 2013 to Monday 27 January 2014. * Member support will continue to be monitored, and may be accessed per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 19 november 2013'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President positions is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of teh Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == TIO == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 8111952d57ee02cc9d7587d25f22cffa372d5491 1178 1175 2014-02-24T03:23:40Z Offcmngr 6 review of items wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 1967d62abf77f08a215dfa30c657e28e48fe70ca 1192 1178 2014-04-04T23:49:11Z Offcmngr 6 5/4/14 Email settings post server migration wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] f742bfb281f3458f43a0963455d0a98fa1666fa4 1206 1192 2014-05-09T01:00:58Z Offcmngr 6 Volunteering Open Day Thur 15 May, 2014 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Open Day Thursday 15 May, 2014 11am - National Volunteering Week == ''Item date 9/5/2014'' * On Thursday the 15 of May, 2014 ACT Community Organisations have been invited by Volunteering ACT to register their organisation to open their doors to the general public, in order to learn more about volunteering with their organisations. This is a part of National Volunteering Week, to "Celebrate the Power of Volunteering". * PCUG is participating in this event on '''Thursday 15 May, 2014 from 11.00am -1.00pm''' at the PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre (Level 2A) , 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time. * We also welcome the interest of any member who would like to participate and be available to chat about their involvement with PCUG. * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts. * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * PCUG have also set-up a scam-watch mailing list that members may subscribe to. See details at [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch] * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 231909d90e35bc049a3d1b3de1c058864bb89002 1207 1206 2014-05-19T03:00:07Z Offcmngr 6 SSO event 2-6 June 2014 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == PCUG Open Day Thursday 15 May, 2014 11am - National Volunteering Week == ''Item date 9/5/2014'' * On Thursday the 15 of May, 2014 ACT Community Organisations have been invited by Volunteering ACT to register their organisation to open their doors to the general public, in order to learn more about volunteering with their organisations. This is a part of National Volunteering Week, to "Celebrate the Power of Volunteering". * PCUG is participating in this event on '''Thursday 15 May, 2014 from 11.00am -1.00pm''' at the PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre (Level 2A) , 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time. * We also welcome the interest of any member who would like to participate and be available to chat about their involvement with PCUG. * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 211d7b7bef03f12e550a4445c7ae488ae6e83c0c 0 39 1176 1110 2014-02-24T03:16:31Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki ; News and Notices moved from [[News_and_Notices]] for archiving : relating to the [http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]. *move older items from the main [[News_and_Notices]] page here when it starts getting too full! *note that items may be revised on [[News_and_Notices]], so may not make it to this page in their original form, if at all :) == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 30 November, 2013 11am - 2.30pm == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br> * at the PCUG Centre, in Holder. * Light refreshments (including non-alcholic drinks), will be provided. * Your assistance to bring a plate, or contribute a gold coin donation will be appreciated. * BYOG. * See you there !!! == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. [[Category:News and Notices]] b9f637339f002c93e1c9fbf5c2ccd7fba66ab559 1177 1176 2014-02-24T03:22:00Z Offcmngr 6 wikitext text/x-wiki ; News and Notices moved from [[News_and_Notices]] for archiving : relating to the [http://www.pcug.org.au PCUG]. *move older items from the main [[News_and_Notices]] page here when it starts getting too full! *note that items may be revised on [[News_and_Notices]], so may not make it to this page in their original form, if at all :) == PCUG Member Survey Update == ''Item reviewed 19 November, 2013''<br/> * you can see a summary of the responses at [[Member_Survey_2013]] * Ongoing efforts are being made to address concerns raised by members. Efforts will be more productive with YOUR help. Users Helping Users via available best effort - can you help? See our [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Activities_and_Opportunities Activities and Opportunities] page for suggestions of options. == Welcome New PCUG Committee Members == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome Anthony Glenn (President), and Heinrich Stefanik (Committee Member), who are new to the committee this year. Thank you to other committee members who are continuing to serve on the committee. Full committee details may be viewed by members on the PCUG Home page (after logging into the site) [http://www.pcug.org.au] under the Administration Tab.<br/> == Info from PCUG AGM Monday 14 October, 2013 6.30pm == ''Item revised 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Welcome to the new committee for 2013-2014 committee year. * New committee members include Anthony Glenn, who has filled the position of President. This position has been vacant for several years. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm Link to AGM Information, including minutes, which may be accessed by members] * draft minutes direct link [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/committee-minutes Committee Minutes Index] * note that these are draft format, to be accepted at the next AGM, with amendments if required == Member support during the Christmas & New Year period == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Monitoring of communications and member needs will be supported by a roster of volunteers. Please follow the help information [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice] * Our appreciation to the PCUG Volunteers who keep services and enquiries of the group maintained during the closure period. * We look forward to 2014 being a time for PCUG moving ahead, with the support of Volunteers who are the back-bone of the clubs success and future. == PCUG Volunteer of the Year for 2013 == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br/> * Congratulations to Rod Peters. * Full details [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/news/history/volunteer-of-year-2013 PCUG Volunteer of the Year 2013 info page] == Office Manager Position == ''Item Revised: 19 November, 2013''<br/> * PCUG's Office Manager, Karen Adams, is happy to announce that she is staying on as Office Manager for PCUG. The Notice of Resignation has been withdrawn, and accepted by the PCUG Committee. Karen has been employed with PCUG since May 2005, and it was gratifying for Karen to have the support and well wishes of so many members. I thank everyone, particularly the PCUG Office Volunteers, Trainers and Committee for their assistance. == PCUG Christmas Party - Sat 30 November, 2013 11am - 2.30pm == ''Item Date 19 November, 2013''<br> * at the PCUG Centre, in Holder. * Light refreshments (including non-alcholic drinks), will be provided. * Your assistance to bring a plate, or contribute a gold coin donation will be appreciated. * BYOG. * See you there !!! == '''TIP Equipment Move Completed''' == ''Item Updated: 20 Aug, 2012''<br/> *As announced to all members by email, the TIP admins have moved all our equipment to a new (cheaper) location in a different TransACT server room, and have restored all services. We had most, including broadband Internet access and mail & web services, back up Sat afternoon, 18 Aug 2012. Unfortunately, dialup services were not restored until 8:30am Mon 20 Aug when TransACT reconnected the phone lines to our new location. We apologise for this delay, which was beyond our control, and thankyou again for your understanding. [[Category:News and Notices]] 8e09465a0afae82fbcd536ab02bb7819cfc57a0c 0 179 1187 1157 2014-03-26T23:18:35Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === VDSL === In the ACT region TransACT provides a wired (VDSL1 or VDSL2) service to many areas of Canberra that can provide phone, broadband internet and payTV. At the time of writing, activity on rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) has slowed. Internet service providers are examining, testing and installing networks that they believe will fit whatever broadband model is decided to complete the NBN, and remain in place even when the NBN is operational. One such technology is VDSL (or sometimes VHDSL) - the 'V' stands for 'very fast', and 'DSL' is 'digital subscriber line'. VDSL (more correctly identified in Canberra as VDSL(M))has been used in various places since 2002, and the second generation (VDSL2) since 2006. To get an idea of world use of VDSL, there is an article [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Very-high-bit-rate_digital_subscriber_line here] VDSL(M) raised an upgrade problem when transitioning to VDSL2, so a 'whole of precinct' upgrade was required in those cases. In Canberra, VDSL uses its own cable infrastructure for the most part and does not depend on Telstra, except in some unit blocks. As with copper wire infrastructure, performance depends on distance from the node. For VDSL, the optimum range is about 300m. VDSL has typical optimised download speeds of 8 Mbps, while VDSL2 can range up to 60 Mbps. VDSL2 upload speeds are about 4 Mbps. At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon. === Physical === From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation. The normal internal termination is a modem (supplied at a cost by TransACT, with the router feature disabled) and a set-top box (STB). Some users prefer to obtain a Fetch STB to replace the one supplied. A wireless router will be required if wi-fi is to be used. TransACT 'owns' all of the internal wiring and the modem. The STB will deliver all but the free-to-air (FTA) channels. For FTA, you need to plug an aerial into the STB and run an aerial wire to the TV. Other channels will depend on any subscriptions you may have. TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want. === Is it available at your location? === Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided. === Options === There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV === Costs === Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs. === Discounts/bundling === TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings. === Cable === In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. You will want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout. In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 4e7543bc8679b46b7740761ed95c9c7a39230cb2 1188 1187 2014-03-26T23:20:29Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === VDSL === In the ACT region TransACT provides a wired (VDSL1 or VDSL2) service to many areas of Canberra that can provide phone, broadband internet and payTV. At the time of writing, activity on rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) has slowed. Internet service providers are examining, testing and installing networks that they believe will fit whatever broadband model is decided to complete the NBN, and remain in place even when the NBN is operational. One such technology is VDSL (or sometimes VHDSL) - the 'V' stands for 'very fast', and 'DSL' is 'digital subscriber line'. VDSL (more correctly identified in Canberra as VDSL(M))has been used in various places since 2002, and the second generation (VDSL2) since 2006. To get an idea of world use of VDSL, there is an article [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Very-high-bit-rate_digital_subscriber_line here] VDSL(M) raised an upgrade problem when transitioning to VDSL2, so a 'whole of precinct' upgrade was required in those cases. In Canberra, VDSL uses its own cable infrastructure for the most part and does not depend on Telstra, except in some unit blocks. As with copper wire infrastructure, performance depends on distance from the node. For VDSL, the optimum range is about 300m. VDSL has typical optimised download speeds of 8 Mbps, while VDSL2 can range up to 60 Mbps. VDSL2 upload speeds are about 4 Mbps. At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon. ==== Physical ==== From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation. The normal internal termination is a modem (supplied at a cost by TransACT, with the router feature disabled) and a set-top box (STB). Some users prefer to obtain a Fetch STB to replace the one supplied. A wireless router will be required if wi-fi is to be used. TransACT 'owns' all of the internal wiring and the modem. The STB will deliver all but the free-to-air (FTA) channels. For FTA, you need to plug an aerial into the STB and run an aerial wire to the TV. Other channels will depend on any subscriptions you may have. TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want. ==== Is it available at your location? ==== Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided. ==== Options ==== There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV ==== Costs ==== Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs. ==== Discounts/bundling ==== TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] cbbfb1e6e04006145fe365d300068e1e8694f875 1189 1188 2014-03-26T23:21:37Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === VDSL === In the ACT region TransACT provides a wired (VDSL1 or VDSL2) service to many areas of Canberra that can provide phone, broadband internet and payTV. At the time of writing, activity on rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) has slowed. Internet service providers are examining, testing and installing networks that they believe will fit whatever broadband model is decided to complete the NBN, and remain in place even when the NBN is operational. One such technology is VDSL (or sometimes VHDSL) - the 'V' stands for 'very fast', and 'DSL' is 'digital subscriber line'. VDSL (more correctly identified in Canberra as VDSL(M))has been used in various places since 2002, and the second generation (VDSL2) since 2006. To get an idea of world use of VDSL, there is an article [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Very-high-bit-rate_digital_subscriber_line here] VDSL(M) raised an upgrade problem when transitioning to VDSL2, so a 'whole of precinct' upgrade was required in those cases. In Canberra, VDSL uses its own cable infrastructure for the most part and does not depend on Telstra, except in some unit blocks. As with copper wire infrastructure, performance depends on distance from the node. For VDSL, the optimum range is about 300m. VDSL has typical optimised download speeds of 8 Mbps, while VDSL2 can range up to 60 Mbps. VDSL2 upload speeds are about 4 Mbps. At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon. ==== VDSL Physical ==== From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation. The normal internal termination is a modem (supplied at a cost by TransACT, with the router feature disabled) and a set-top box (STB). Some users prefer to obtain a Fetch STB to replace the one supplied. A wireless router will be required if wi-fi is to be used. TransACT 'owns' all of the internal wiring and the modem. The STB will deliver all but the free-to-air (FTA) channels. For FTA, you need to plug an aerial into the STB and run an aerial wire to the TV. Other channels will depend on any subscriptions you may have. TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want. ==== Is VDSL available at your location? ==== Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided. ==== VDSL Options ==== There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV ==== VDSL Costs ==== Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs. ==== VDSL Discounts/bundling ==== TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 10236b4ea3952cae9c34909d813a1b077f0972fd 1190 1189 2014-03-28T04:00:41Z Pblair 10 wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === VDSL === In the ACT region TransACT provides a wired (VDSL1 or VDSL2) service to many areas of Canberra that can provide phone, broadband internet and payTV. At the time of writing, activity on rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) has slowed. Internet service providers are examining, testing and installing networks that they believe will fit whatever broadband model is decided to complete the NBN, and remain in place even when the NBN is operational. One such technology is VDSL (or sometimes VHDSL) - the 'V' stands for 'very fast', and 'DSL' is 'digital subscriber line'. VDSL (more correctly identified in Canberra as VDSL(M))has been used in various places since 2002, and the second generation (VDSL2) since 2006. To get an idea of world use of VDSL, there is an article [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Very-high-bit-rate_digital_subscriber_line here] VDSL(M) raised an upgrade problem when transitioning to VDSL2, so a 'whole of precinct' upgrade was required in those cases. In Canberra, VDSL uses its own cable infrastructure for the most part and does not depend on Telstra, except in some unit blocks. As with copper wire infrastructure, performance depends on distance from the node. For VDSL, the optimum range is about 300m. VDSL has typical optimised download speeds of 8 Mbps, while VDSL2 can range up to 60 Mbps. VDSL2 upload speeds are about 4 Mbps. At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon. * '''VDSL Physical''' From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation. The normal internal termination is a modem (supplied at a cost by TransACT, with the router feature disabled) and a set-top box (STB). Some users prefer to obtain a Fetch STB to replace the one supplied. A wireless router will be required if wi-fi is to be used. TransACT 'owns' all of the internal wiring and the modem. The STB will deliver all but the free-to-air (FTA) channels. For FTA, you need to plug an aerial into the STB and run an aerial wire to the TV. Other channels will depend on any subscriptions you may have. TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want. * '''Is VDSL available at your location?''' Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided. * '''VDSL Options''' There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV * '''VDSL Costs''' Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs. * '''VDSL Discounts/bundling''' TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] 73af984e83c81cf58f3fda19882afad58adc8db1 1191 1190 2014-03-31T03:33:08Z Pblair 10 /* VDSL */ wikitext text/x-wiki There are a wide range of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_access Internet Access] alternatives: wired and wireless, mobile and fixed, low and high usage. This page aims to briefly summarise the likely alternatives for PCUG members, with links to other sites with more information and comparisons of these alternatives. == Lower Usage Access == To support basic email sending and receiving and modest web usage, with both wireless and dialup wired options possible. === Mobile Broadband === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require. There are several possibilities for accessing this service: * using a mobile broadband hotspot - this is a small device that creates a small local wireless hotspot that several devices can connect to (including laptops, mobiles, tablets, wifi e-readers, etc) to share the mobile broadband link it manages. This is a flexible option that allows one link to be shared by several devices. The mobile SIM for this link is installed in the hotspot, and you would typically use a data-only mobile broadband subscription (either pre or post-paid). * use of a tablet or smartphone with a data plan to directly access net services - where you tablet has a SIM with mobile (rather than just WiFi) data capability, or you have a smartphone with mobile SIM. You can use the applications provided on these to access Internet services using the respective data-only mobile broadband, or general mobile with data added, subscriptions on the device. * share your smartphone's data connection - extending the above option, you could configure your tablet/smartphone as a WiFi hotspot to share it's Internet connection with other devices. The details for how to do this depend on the type of device you have. Please be aware that using a mobile phone to share Internet access may incur significant data charges after exceeding the data limit that is set on certain plans - check your monthly data limit and usage frequently with your mobile phone service provider if you choose this option. === Fixed Wireless Broadband === This service also uses wireless technology, but differs from mobile broadband in having a fixed access node attached to your house (or other building) that provides a direct link back to the provider's wireless tower. Because this uses a fixed node with a larger antenna, it can cover a wider area from the wireless tower, and hence may be able to reach into areas that mobile broadband does not. Availability of this service very much depends on the provider's infrastructure, but in the Canberra region, [http://www.netspeed.com.au/netspeed.cfm?action=p_15 NetSpeed's Longreach Broadband] service supports this option for those in suitable service areas. === Dialup === A continually decreasing number of ISPs also still offer [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialup dialup Internet access] using a modem connected to your phone-line. However this provides limited speeds and download capabilities, and support is being discontinued by ISPs due to increasing costs. This is unlikely to be a long-term option. == Higher Usage Access == To support those with heavy web usage and/or significant multimedia downloading or streaming. === National Broadband Network (NBN) === The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network National Broadband Network (NBN)] was originally devised as a fibre to the premises ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTP]) and is currently under construction in Australia. It was planned to provide extremely fast download speeds to 93% of Australian homes and businesses, however this is currently under review following the change of Federal Government and is likely to be reduced in capability. The remaining homes and businesses would be covered using fibre to the node ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FTTP FTTN]), wireless and satellite technologies. Its fibre network will replace most other wired (telephone twisted pair used by ADSL and coaxial cable as used by Bigpond & Optus in some major cities) connections. Once the NBN passes a location, these other wired networks will be shutdown 18 months later. Note that in limited areas of the ACT, Transact already provide a separate FTTP service. This FTTP network is in the process of being purchased by NBN Co. To access the Internet via the NBN, you need to be connected to the NBN, and have a phone and/or Internet subscription with an NBN provider. More information on the NBN rollout, and NBN providers is available on the [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website]. === ADSL === [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL)] provides broadband data access over legacy (twisted-pair) phone-line connections much faster than a dialup modem, whilst still allowing standard phone calls to occur at the same time (unlike using dialup). In recent years this has been the main broadband alternative of choice, with a large number of providers offering it. However in Australia it is expected to be superseded by the NBN rollout in coming years. To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra). In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them. === VDSL === In the ACT region TransACT provides a wired (VDSL1 or VDSL2) service to many areas of Canberra that can provide phone, broadband internet and payTV. At the time of writing, activity on rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) has slowed. Internet service providers are examining, testing and installing networks that they believe will fit whatever broadband model is decided to complete the NBN, and remain in place even when the NBN is operational. One such technology is VDSL (or sometimes VHDSL) - the 'V' stands for 'very fast', and 'DSL' is 'digital subscriber line'. VDSL (more correctly identified in Canberra as VDSL(M))has been used in various places since 2002, and the second generation (VDSL2) since 2006. To get an idea of world use of VDSL, there is an article [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Very-high-bit-rate_digital_subscriber_line here] VDSL(M) raised an upgrade problem when transitioning to VDSL2, so a 'whole of precinct' upgrade was required in those cases. In Canberra, VDSL uses its own cable infrastructure for the most part and does not depend on Telstra, except in some unit blocks. As with copper wire infrastructure, performance depends on distance from the node. For VDSL, the optimum range is about 300m. VDSL has typical optimised download speeds of 8 Mbps, while VDSL2 can range up to 60 Mbps. VDSL2 upload speeds are about 4 Mbps. At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon. * '''VDSL Physical''' From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation. The normal internal termination is a modem (supplied at a cost by TransACT, with the router feature disabled) and a set-top box (STB). Some users prefer to obtain a Fetch STB to replace the one supplied. A wireless router will be required if wi-fi is to be used. TransACT 'owns' all of the internal wiring and the modem. The STB will deliver all but the free-to-air (FTA) channels. For FTA, you need to plug an aerial into the STB and run an aerial wire to the TV. Other channels will depend on any subscriptions you may have. TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want. * '''Is VDSL available at your location?''' Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided. * '''VDSL Options''' There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV * '''VDSL Costs''' Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs. * '''VDSL Discounts/bundling''' TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. However a recent sign-up reported that, with 5 services on his account (water and sewerage don't count) he got a 10% discount on certain items. Check your situation with TransACT if you plan to connect. == More Information == The following sites may assist with additional information. Whirlpool in particular has a large amount of comparative information, and user supplied commentary, on many aspects of Internet access. * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] * [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/?action=list&loc=8 Whirlpool ACT Service Providers] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/Choosing_a_Broadband_Provider_FAQ Whirlpool Choosing a Broadband Provider FAQ] * [http://whirlpool.net.au/wiki/NBN Whirlpool NBN Overview] * [http://www.nbnco.com.au/ NBN Co website] [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Internet]] a3d8077e3b5b313ddf9157d58e673b7cd68bffa5 0 161 1193 1142 2014-04-05T09:21:25Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot ;Notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It fails to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Then manually run <nowiki>#grub2-mkconfig</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE ;Notes :The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. :This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. :Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot ;Notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It fails to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Then manually run <nowiki>#grub2-mkconfig</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE ;Notes :The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. :This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. :Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. ==== Dedicated Boot Partition ==== This is by far the most reliable mode, but requires manual installation & configuration. The procedure is covered in Info Grub[2] -> Configuration -> Multi-boot Manual Config #create a small partition of at least 16 MB (keep to partition number #> 3 to avoid other issues) #mount this partition to /mnt/boot #install grub2 ##grub2-install --boot-directory=/mnt/boot /dev/hdx ##check for presence of /mnt/boot/grub(2) #configure boot via dedicated partition ##write simple /mnt/boot/grub(2)/menu.cfg #*the sample in Info Grub suffices as a starting point #*it has the slight drawback that '''two''' sequential boot menus are presented #*both can be set to default to the most frequently used OS #configure '''each''' installed OS for compatibilty with dedicated boot partition #*GUI bootloader configuration can be used #*parameters will vary between distro ##'''disable''' OS prober ##set bootloader to be installed in custom location of dedicated partition ie /dev/sdx(n) ##do '''not''' allow OS to install bootloader to MBR #*that was already done by grub-install previously NB - there is no way of testing this setup without rebooting *have the 'on-the-fly" procedure above to hand *have a PartedMagic boot CD to hand - it can boot to Grub command line With this setup, regular OS updates '''do''' update Grub code *but do not overwrite the grub.cfg in the dedicated boot partition *these '''will''' update a different grub.cfg, in the OS's /boot/grub(2) folder **to which the dedicated boot parttiion chains == Strictly for Geeks == ==== Manual Install ==== Distro run many scripts to provide GUI interface to bootloader configuration. If these are failing either initially or following kernel updates, then the most reliable process is a manually '''installed''' and '''configured''' GRUB 2. Details will differ between distro. For openSUSE: ::<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' this procedure initially removes all bootloaders, including that for Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> #copy the existing boot menu file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg to a different location eg in /root #Yast2->System->Bootloader #*set bootloader type to "do not install any bootloader" #**accept all the warnings #**press OK to complete #from root's command prompt: #:<nowiki># grub2-install /dev/sd(x)</nowiki> #;Notes #*installation to a second HDD eg /dev/sdb, would avoid overwriting bootloader on /dev/sda #*default location of boot code will become /boot/grub2 on the currently booted system #**generally suitable but see info grub2 to change location. #: #Write a static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries. Each menuentry has the syntax between the ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### section markers in [[Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode | Menu Mode]] above Such basic menu works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in[[Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode | Menu Mode]] *press 'e' to edit an entry. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] f2fa186bd03b8a72a24f1a42b41bf2db13d10d30 1195 1193 2014-04-06T23:55:02Z Rpeters 14 refined dedicated boot partition - added caution re EFI wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot ;Notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It fails to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Then manually run <nowiki>#grub2-mkconfig</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE ;Notes :The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. :This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. :Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. == For General Users == === Boot Only Rescue CD === The following CD can often succeed in booting a system which is failing to start from hard disk drive *rEFInd *Supergrub2 Either can boot most operating systems, including Linux, MacOSX and Windows Try rEFInd for systems manufactured from early 2011 onwards. If it does not start on your computer then try Supergrub 2 Older computers are likely to require Supergrub 2 #Either CD is downloadable, at no cost, as a dotISO file. #*http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.7.7/refind-cd-0.7.7.zip/download #*http://developer.berlios.de/project/showfiles.php?group_id=10921&release_id=19361 #Use the following procedure to burn that file to a '''bootable''' CD #*[[Using dotISO Files]] #Then insert the CD in the faulty computer and reboot #enter Setup and move CDROM above HDD in the boot order, if necessary #save changes and exit Setup #after the CD boots menu items can be selected only via arrow keys - '''mouse''' does not work at this stage of boot #*rEFInd should find all bootable operating systems and present an icon that is readily associated with each eg penguin, apple, flying windows #**highlight the required one and press enter #*Supergrub requires an additional step #**select the first menu line and press Enter #**it should then identify all bootable operating systems, by name #**highlight the required one and press enter Systems that don't boot via the above procedures can often still be recovered, but it gets technical. As described below == Getting Technical == === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 grub> initrd /boot/initrd grub> boot ;Notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It fails to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Then manually run <nowiki>#grub2-mkconfig</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE ;Notes :The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. :This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. :Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. ==== Dedicated Boot Partition ==== This is by far the most reliable mode, but with three big provisos: *does not work on <span style="color:#c93800">'''EFI mainboards'''</span> *<span style="color:#ef2108">''' this procedure probably overwrites an existing bootloader, possibly one that also boots Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> *requires manual installation & configuration. The procedure is covered in Info Grub[2] -> Configuration -> Multi-boot Manual Config #create a small partition of at least 16 MB #*keep to partition number #> 3, if available. to avoid other issues) #mount this partition to /mnt/boot #install grub2 ##<nowiki># grub2-install --boot-directory=/mnt/boot /dev/hdx</nowiki> ##check for presence of /mnt/boot/grub(2) #configure boot via dedicated partition ##write simple /mnt/boot/grub(2)/menu.cfg ##*the sample in Info Grub suffices as a starting point ##*it has the slight drawback that '''two''' sequential boot menus are presented ##*both can be set to default to the most frequently used OS ##*parameters to boot direct to various installed OS could be a later refinement #configure '''each''' installed OS for compatibilty with dedicated boot partition #*GUI bootloader configuration can be used #*parameters will vary between distro ##'''disable''' OS prober ##set bootloader to be installed in custom location of dedicated partition ie /dev/sdx(n) ##do '''not''' allow OS to install bootloader to MBR ##*that was already done by grub-install previously ##*an installer not having this option would need to be set to "do not install any bootloader" (and ignore the nagware) NB - there is no way of testing this setup without rebooting *have the 'on-the-fly" procedure above to hand *have a PartedMagic boot CD to hand - it can boot to Grub command line as well as search out bootable installations **SystemrescueCD will also boot installed distro via some CLI input With this setup, regular OS updates '''do''' update Grub code *but do not overwrite the grub.cfg in the dedicated boot partition *these '''will''' update a different grub.cfg, in the OS's /boot/grub(2) folder **to which the dedicated boot parttiion chains, if the code from Info Grub is used == Strictly for Geeks == ==== Manual Install ==== Distro run many scripts to provide GUI interface to bootloader configuration. If these are failing either initially or following kernel updates, then the most reliable process is a manually '''installed''' and '''configured''' GRUB 2. Details will differ between distro. For openSUSE: ::<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' this procedure initially removes all bootloaders, including that for Windows''' Proceed only if means of recovery are to hand</span> #copy the existing boot menu file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg to a different location eg in /root #Yast2->System->Bootloader #*set bootloader type to "do not install any bootloader" #**accept all the warnings #**press OK to complete #from root's command prompt: #:<nowiki># grub2-install /dev/sd(x)</nowiki> #;Notes #*installation to a second HDD eg /dev/sdb, would avoid overwriting bootloader on /dev/sda #*default location of boot code will become /boot/grub2 on the currently booted system #**generally suitable but see info grub2 to change location. #: #Write a static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg consisting solely of multiple menuentries. Each menuentry has the syntax between the ### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### ### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ### section markers in [[Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode | Menu Mode]] above Such basic menu works well enough. GRUB2 autoloads most of the modules it needs. If you get a manual menuentry wrong then on-the-fly editing is available as in[[Emergency_Boot_-_Including_for_Dual-Boot#Menu_mode | Menu Mode]] *press 'e' to edit an entry. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] a84dc6bdfede7169ebc413b6fe87f75821def744 0 99 1196 711 2014-04-07T00:54:18Z Rpeters 14 updated Linux automatic loading of parport etc modules wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Such printers are now old and only woth pursuing for special features, such as: *capability for larger than A4 paper *stock of consumables available == Connection == Few contemporary computers have a parallel port. Possible options #some may have a neader on the mainboard, to which a parallel port sccket, having "flying" cable, from '90s vintage computer may be plugged #USB-LPT adapter #printer server Printer cables conforming to iEEE 1284 use twisted-pairs, for higher data transfer rates *these will make a difference only for ECP or EPP capable printers == Settings == Settings in the computer's BIOS or device menu '''and''' the printer should be set to the highest capability that '''both''' can handle. The following capablilities are listed in '''increasing''' order: *Stnadard Parallel Port (SPP) - for pre-1994 printers *bi-directional - typically in mid-90s printers *EPP *ECP USB-LPT devices may not be configurable and tend to support higher modes only *these may not work at all with SPP or bi-directional printers == Linux == Linux distributions for several years from about 2011 do not '''activate''' modules required for parallel port printers, by default. #In 3.x kernels the modules required are named #*ppdev ('parport' in 2.6.x kernels) #*lp Recent distributions have reverted to automatically loading the '''five''' modules that are now required for a parallel port when one is detected : --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] b7ef943a534f690df0cf7a1fdada6cc2bc5e75f9 0 7 1197 1075 2014-04-16T05:20:57Z Rpeters 14 /* Monitors & Projectors */ added notes for Training Room presenters wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] efa3e53e4fbfaf40718d3b99e322bc48392fe827 0 206 1198 2014-04-16T05:31:31Z Rpeters 14 added QSG for presenters wikitext text/x-wiki Please do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> alter these notes unless you are a PCUG Trainer or Technical Volunteer. The notes are provided as a Quick Start Guide to Presenters, some of whom might be using the projector for the first time General guidance for using projectors/multiple displays on computers are at === Connection === ==== HDMI ==== Primary connection is now via HDMI *the 3-way HDMI switch defaults to the only powered port **normally either Trainer PC or Presenter's device **up to 2 Presenter's devices can be attached simultaneously and switched via the button on top of the switch ==== Headline text ==== The projector also supports VGA *the VGA switch used is <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> automatic *#connect a "flying" VGA cable to your computer *#ensure that the purple VGA switch is set to the same cable number *#*press button in middle of switch until relevant red LED iights *#*press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote not 537c5537ff4c0b56d64ac0092320b470f008301c 1199 1198 2014-04-16T05:41:21Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Please do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> alter these notes unless you are a PCUG Trainer or Technical Volunteer. The notes are provided as a Quick Start Guide to Presenters, some of whom might be using the projector for the first time General guidance for using projectors/multiple displays on computers are at === Connection === ==== HDMI ==== Primary connection is now via HDMI *the 3-way HDMI switch defaults to the only powered port **normally either Trainer PC or Presenter's device **up to 2 Presenter's devices can be attached simultaneously and switched via the button on top of the switch ==== VGA ==== The projector also supports VGA *the VGA switch used is <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> automatic *#connect a "flying" VGA cable to your computer *#ensure that the purple VGA switch is set to the same cable number *#*press button in middle of switch until relevant red LED iights *#*press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote *#use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''Computer''' (VGA) at top of menu *#press enter to activate and exit menu *#*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs and your computer to "wake" *#*at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' ==== USB Drive ==== The projector supports direct display of Powerpoint presentations from a USB device #plug USB drive to projector's socket on rear #*correct any resulting misalignment of the projector image on screen #*do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> pull <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''down '''</span> on projector #*push <span style="color:#c93800; ">''up'''</span> on relevant edge or <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> in horizonal plane 64d3a846cdf18b398180086a78037931d426a7ea 1200 1199 2014-04-16T05:59:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Please do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> alter these notes unless you are a PCUG Trainer or Technical Volunteer. The notes are provided as a Quick Start Guide to Presenters, some of whom might be using the projector for the first time General guidance for using projectors/multiple displays on computers are at === Connection === ==== HDMI ==== Primary connection is now via HDMI *the 3-way HDMI switch defaults to the only powered port **normally either Trainer PC or Presenter's device **up to 2 Presenter's devices can be attached simultaneously and switched via the button on top of the switch ==== VGA ==== The projector also supports VGA *the VGA switch used is <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> automatic *#connect a "flying" VGA cable to your computer *#ensure that the purple VGA switch is set to the same cable number *#*press button in middle of switch until relevant red LED iights *#*press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote *#use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''Computer''' (VGA) at top of menu *#press enter to activate and exit menu *#*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs and your computer to "wake" *#*at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' ==== USB Drive ==== The projector supports direct display of Powerpoint presentations from a USB device #plug USB drive to projector's socket on rear #*correct any resulting misalignment of the projector image on screen #*do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> pull <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''down '''</span> on projector #*push <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''up'''</span> on relevant edge or <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''rotate'''</span> in horizonal plane #press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote #use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''USB''' on menu #press enter to activate and exit menu #*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs #use projector's remote to cycle through slides #at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' e45f3b10d50ca909dabfd3da8cc881ad49184032 0 88 1201 697 2014-04-19T03:04:38Z Rpeters 14 /* For Beginners */ added distribution specific notes wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== '''Locale''' == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 0eb4f118ef9839131aa705b420ff8f15df65c5d9 1202 1201 2014-04-19T03:40:57Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initial;y setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] fa0253e825161ab21e336cd57e91d8752c6d8677 1203 1202 2014-04-19T03:46:02Z Rpeters 14 /* For Geeks */summary of Arch Linux wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initial;y setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup ==== Basic Installation ==== --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] cf8835adacd9ce1ffec58133a8276ae7682816df 1204 1203 2014-04-19T03:47:02Z Rpeters 14 /* Arch Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initial;y setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 23e2312bf2cce9b6221dd335d66c58bf39fd1dd9 1205 1204 2014-04-19T03:49:17Z Rpeters 14 /* Specialised Distributions */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initial;y setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 999d44698acd99e198133670bfb71b6d870a2bac 0 75 1208 1165 2014-05-19T09:59:20Z Pblair 10 /* What would you use it for? */ wikitext text/x-wiki '''PLEASE NOTE THAT (AS OF Jan 2014) PCUG NO LONGER OFFERS HOSTING''' When you open an account with an internet service provider (ISP), you will usually get an allowance of storage space on the ISP's servers that you can use. This is your own personal 'cloud' The space is usually not large (maybe 10MB) but it can be useful for storing backup files or simple web pages. Simple web pages are just that - a page or collection (usually HTML) that renders simply to readers via their browsers. Their content is 'fixed' until the author makes amendments. More complicated web pages are often handled differently. Information and instructions are stored on the ISP's server, and, when accessed, the instructions (usually known as 'scripts') construct a page and send it to the browser. This is often referred to as 'server-side scripting'. The Google search engine provides a (huge!) example - ask it to search for something, and it searches then composes a response that you read on your screen or device. Building web pages in this way introduces the expression 'web hosting', where your ISP is the host, and provides the tools to make it happen. Hosting is offered by many ISPs and is quite affordable. ==== What would you use it for? ==== At the home user/enthusiast level, there are any number of clubs and associations that host their websites. Typical users in the wider world are health organisations, dance clubs, hiking groups and philatelic clubs - but that's just a sample. Popular Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress (http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/), Joomla! and Drupal rely on hosting. ==== The learning curve ==== At first glance, the curve seems steep. Novices find themselves surrounded by jargon and abbreviations, whereas the structure of what is used is quite simple. [[File:XAMPP.jpg|left]]At the top of the list is the web server software itself, the operating system that figures out how to deal with multiple users at once. This comes in various levels of use, from the simple to the complicated, usually defined in terms of the workload they will have to cope with. By brand name, the most used software on the internet comes from Apache (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_HTTP_Server), with Microsoft's IIS (Internet Information Server) a fair way behind. Along with the server software, we generally have scripting (instruction) language software. There are many options here, but names like PHP, Java, Python, Ruby, and Perl will appear in web pages and help files. All have proven themselves, and usually attract devotees who share their efforts widely to the benefit of other users. Often data is involved, so some form of database system is needed. At the smaller enterprise/enthusiast level, MySQL is probably the most used. It can be used as a flat file, or relationally, using related tables for efficiency. [[File:Xampp_ok.jpg|right|300px]]You can try this all for yourself at home! If you have the space and the curiosity, download '''XAMPP''' (for Windows at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp.html) or '''LAMPP''' (for Linux at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-linux.html) and Mac (at http://www.apachefriends.org/en/xampp-macosx.html).. all for '''free'''. Downloads are typically about 80MB. The sites given here provide full installation instructions. See if you can figure out what the acronyms stand for... And there you have it - a home server of which you are the webmaster, where you can experiment with HTML pages, write PHP scripts, trial WordPress or Joomla! and all in the privacy (and convenience) of your own computer. One last cautionary thing. The server that you set up at home is not connected to the internet, so, to that extent, it is private. But if the computer that it is installed on is connected to the internet, there could be a way for someone to see what you are doing. The systems noted above provide information about preserving privacy. Please read their instructions and take the necessary precautions. '''On to Part 2....'''[http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Web_hosting_in_action] [[Category:Technical Info]] d0643a1e6afea607d2269ab802f443b906d331c8 0 88 1216 1205 2014-05-28T22:35:12Z Rpeters 14 /* Basic Installation */ added outline instructions wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initial;y setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b45bf05c5afaec00f7bbd75f95d15658954014ae 1217 1216 2014-05-28T22:39:09Z Rpeters 14 /* Arch Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initial;y setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 3963329f81cf84e8f8b7a5fafdbfec58baa96b1e 1265 1217 2014-09-12T03:56:16Z Rpeters 14 /* Printer Setup */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 0a1847e1c2039900c29b15261adaa26fd212daef 0 181 1218 1009 2014-06-01T04:00:15Z Rpeters 14 /* Digging Deeper */split instructions for Linux & Windows wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. ==== Linux ==== ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] 7928eead59701fd49f4b7d4bc7e3f32e64cde591 1219 1218 2014-06-01T04:03:48Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] 19b5c886955f9f86d6c459233b352fd9e12aa5c2 1220 1219 2014-06-01T04:15:15Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */split Linux & Windows instructions wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute # $java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*window can't be enlarged beyond resolution of Android device - usually # > 1280 x800 ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] 1369d74edab351eed0f67a47017da3475fb2bf26 1221 1220 2014-06-01T04:18:20Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*window can't be enlarged beyond resolution of Android device - usually # > 1280 x800 '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] f4acf8abd4033c5190f2576732aca277c34567e0 1222 1221 2014-06-01T04:23:35Z Rpeters 14 /* Digging Deeper */ wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Some techniques require *Android app and/or *WiFi connection between PC & Android device The following technique requires neither of the above, but does require a USB connection between the devices ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*window can't be enlarged beyond resolution of Android device - usually # > 1280 x800 '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] 5f178ca9a65f3af39973715f3f36b50df5186bb0 1223 1222 2014-06-01T04:27:33Z Rpeters 14 /* Digging Deeper */ wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Some techniques require *Android app and/or *WiFi connection between PC & Android device The following technique requires neither of the above, but does require a USB connection between the devices *works with Android in Portrait or Landscape mode, with latter usually better **Landscape usually increases font and **makes more use of Projector screen ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*window can't be enlarged beyond resolution of Android device - usually # > 1280 x800 '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] d7541b62d7ddaff87a51d156a9a8f2117c932d59 1224 1223 2014-06-02T00:32:20Z Rpeters 14 /* Digging Deeper */added other packages required for some Linux wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Some techniques require *Android app and/or *WiFi connection between PC & Android device The following technique requires neither of the above, but does require a USB connection between the devices *works with Android in Portrait or Landscape mode, with latter usually better **Landscape usually increases font and **makes more use of Projector screen ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #install other packages required #*nil - for openSUSE #*udisks2 & kio-mtp for Archlinux running KDE #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*window can't be enlarged beyond resolution of Android device - usually # > 1280 x800 '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] 6103771edb6b56ed7e73b0298e0cc5e1a32af261 1225 1224 2014-06-02T11:50:19Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Some techniques require *Android app and/or *WiFi connection between PC & Android device The following technique requires neither of the above, but does require a USB connection between the devices *works with Android in Portrait or Landscape mode, with latter usually better **Landscape usually increases font and **makes more use of Projector screen ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #install other packages required #*nil - for openSUSE #*udisks2 & kio-mtp for Archlinux running KDE #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE & Archlinux) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*window can't be enlarged beyond resolution of Android device - usually # > 1280 x800 '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] ca50d5995c46da45f703c68bf2cb86d7a958bee5 1226 1225 2014-06-02T11:53:51Z Rpeters 14 /* Digging Deeper */ wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Some techniques require *Android app and/or *WiFi connection between PC & Android device The following technique requires neither of the above, but does require a USB connection between the devices *works with Android in Portrait or Landscape mode, with latter usually better **Landscape usually increases font and **makes more use of Projector screen **allows scaling of screen image above & below 100% ***use with caution, to avoid fuzzy display on PC monitor/projector ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #install other packages required #*nil - for openSUSE #*udisks2 & kio-mtp for Archlinux running KDE #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE & Archlinux) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*window can't be enlarged beyond resolution of Android device - usually # > 1280 x800 '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] bd98b3122096fd12679dea58c712129c8a2eb7b1 1227 1226 2014-06-02T11:59:41Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */included ability to scale image of Android screen plus some troubleshooting tips wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Some techniques require *Android app and/or *WiFi connection between PC & Android device The following technique requires neither of the above, but does require a USB connection between the devices *works with Android in Portrait or Landscape mode, with latter usually better **Landscape usually increases font and **makes more use of Projector screen **allows scaling of screen image above & below 100% ***use with caution, to avoid fuzzy display on PC monitor/projector ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #install other packages required #*nil - for openSUSE #*udisks2 & kio-mtp for Archlinux running KDE #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE & Archlinux) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*an empty screen might indicate: #**a missing mtp package #**USB devices not set to load automatically '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] fb4964b8c6d37da5c34dfc5791c4bc804479f122 1228 1227 2014-06-02T12:04:31Z Rpeters 14 /* Digging Deeper */ wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know, or let me know and I will edit the wiki for you: Paul.</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Some techniques require *Android app and/or *WiFi connection between PC & Android device The following technique requires neither of the above, but does require a USB connection between the devices *works with Android in Portrait or Landscape mode, with latter usually better **Landscape usually increases font and **makes more use of Projector screen **allows scaling of screen image above & below 100% ***use with caution, to avoid fuzzy display on PC monitor/projector *tested with: **Bauhn 10.1 inch dual-core tablet ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #install other packages required #*nil - for openSUSE #*udisks2 & kio-mtp for Archlinux running KDE #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE & Archlinux) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*an empty screen might indicate: #**a missing mtp package #**USB devices not set to load automatically '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] c93dd305ddb0e772d22a47a455de4f5e6f8dd879 0 99 1229 1196 2014-06-02T12:14:08Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Such printers are now old and only woth pursuing for special features, such as: *capability for larger than A4 paper *stock of consumables available == Connection == Few contemporary computers have a parallel port. Possible options #some may have a neader on the mainboard, to which a parallel port sccket, having "flying" cable, from '90s vintage computer may be plugged #USB-LPT adapter #printer server Printer cables conforming to iEEE 1284 use twisted-pairs, for higher data transfer rates *these will make a difference only for ECP or EPP capable printers == Settings == Settings in the computer's BIOS or device menu '''and''' the printer should be set to the highest capability that '''both''' can handle. The following capablilities are listed in '''increasing''' order: *Stnadard Parallel Port (SPP) - for pre-1994 printers *bi-directional - typically in mid-90s printers *EPP *ECP USB-LPT devices may not be configurable and tend to support higher modes only *these may not work at all with SPP or bi-directional printers == Linux == Linux distributions circa 2011 do not '''activate''' modules required for parallel port printers, by default. If upgrade to a later distribution is not feasible the following modules need to be loaded via "insmod" #In 3.x kernels the modules required are named #*ppdev ('parport' in 2.6.x kernels) #*lp Recent distributions have reverted to automatically loading the '''five''' modules that are now required for a parallel port when one is detected. If configuring the printer manually in CUPS, the nomenclature for parallel device is now: parallel:/dev/lp1 --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] dfe5b1547f8496e58c242bf33cc1491118404aee 0 165 1230 1044 2014-06-02T23:33:32Z Rpeters 14 /* Troubleshooting */added notes re CUPS >= 1.6 and Foomatic 4.n wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === The direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 *this is also usually the most capable and reliable interface *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers may not have been **LibreOffice allows selection Print Properties -> Device -> Prlinter Language to be changed to Postscript, on a per job basis === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices scan via USB interface only and not via network. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:02, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[:Technical Info]] 72555e1dc840dbdbe52008727573c9e7d85ae484 1263 1230 2014-09-12T03:52:55Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers may not have been **LibreOffice allows selection Print Properties -> Device -> Prlinter Language to be changed to Postscript, on a per job basis === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices scan via USB interface only and not via network. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[:Technical Info]] 57d6044351a1959735f23c3dd90f4dd738098ad9 1264 1263 2014-09-12T03:53:46Z Rpeters 14 gave system-config-printer higher rating as admin tool wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers may not have been **LibreOffice allows selection Print Properties -> Device -> Prlinter Language to be changed to Postscript, on a per job basis === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices scan via USB interface only and not via network. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[:Technical Info]] 102326dd17d2f4698dff8487856b09d2045d45c9 0 16 1231 760 2014-06-06T06:48:38Z Rpeters 14 /* Writing ISO Files */changed recommendation from unetbootin to SUSE Studio Imagewriter wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*other users see #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2867e948e7e31428b5aa520526a2ac7dc8471cd3 1232 1231 2014-06-06T07:02:35Z Rpeters 14 /* Writing ISO Files */changed recommendation from unetbootin to SUSE Studio Imagewriter wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span>#*other users see |} #*other users see ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 8d82f6c9c33d255c15450ec544337f17274d9cae 1233 1232 2014-06-06T07:04:12Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span>#*other users see |} #*other users see ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 1f1301f026b1eafad463543ff64cabc6f1217eec 1234 1233 2014-06-06T07:06:37Z Rpeters 14 /* Burning Bootable CD/DVD */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span># |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] dc8f8a762384aa41fcfd1c6c1dad81c2d706c0c6 1235 1234 2014-06-06T07:06:52Z Rpeters 14 /* Burning Bootable CD/DVD */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 5f1ec12e75c8ff78a75520cf9b120a478d44c0de 0 112 1236 1215 2014-06-23T11:14:51Z Quanro 13 /* Courses for 2014 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b8438a47b83cc1289dbe6886c1f513404b5e78ab 1237 1236 2014-06-23T11:24:05Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' NO CLASSES 29 ''September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm ** ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ab67a201e8be46339b80080a0b1f3c6c7d74045c 1238 1237 2014-06-23T11:29:29Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm ** * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d508365d9e1f8b284e16c4a9815a441b3115ceb6 1239 1238 2014-06-23T11:31:53Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm ** * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f04112d3f6881d6cfb43373e2fba8de98439b05f 1240 1239 2014-06-23T11:33:18Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm ** * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b9494d65787a5dfce2a9155cf9b61e4f2287b95b 1241 1240 2014-06-23T11:36:15Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === * NEW START DATES !! *'''Course Title:''' Excel - Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of Excel required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **''Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **''There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with the Windows environment.<br/>'' *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Wed 09 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 2: ''Wed 16 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 3: ''Wed 23 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 4: ''Wed 30 April 2014 1-3pm'' ** NO CLASS : ''Wed 07 May 2014'' ** Session 5: ''Wed 14 May 2014 1-3pm'' ** Session 6: ''Wed 21 May 2014 1-3pm'' * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. *'''''A second course is planned for August/September.<br/> === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] a8eada112616e9f9db90e9dd20a0a86f50882d7e 1244 1241 2014-08-17T23:45:36Z Offcmngr 6 /* EXCEL - RQ removed old course details wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ea8c4f2f53be8dfeb024154811e50467db2e143c 1245 1244 2014-08-17T23:47:32Z Offcmngr 6 /* Courses for 2014 */ placed courses in date order wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 603d4fc730bd9c2b10e20e3bec0b5c1252dc5416 1246 1245 2014-08-17T23:49:49Z Offcmngr 6 moved outdated courses to unscheduled area wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === NOTE: NEW START DATE * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of PCUG trainers) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 06 August 2014 **Session 2: Wed 13 August 2014 **Session 3: Wed 20 August 2014 **Session 4: Wed 27 August 2014 **Session 5: Wed 03 September 2014 **Session 6: Wed 10 September 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 11 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f00fd3c274cf4f86111f8868d94e2136e70ca6ce 1247 1246 2014-08-18T00:22:10Z Offcmngr 6 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ group N details starting 22Oct14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 7792033ecc27aa5bee31c3e59ff63e61d50cf4f5 1248 1247 2014-08-18T01:08:58Z Offcmngr 6 /* Courses for 2014 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 7356b95ae265e0dcc2af4763cfd73ffb9d5214dc 1249 1248 2014-08-18T01:12:28Z Offcmngr 6 horizontal rule wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 5c34cc221e0f3bc843ffccbe6840582fb691ef76 1254 1249 2014-08-18T12:15:42Z Mikec 31 /* WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 88bad01edd0c66da24133aad881e6e349c213104 1255 1254 2014-08-18T12:19:33Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 5cd60dc38a2ace56c7a598f0710007000afab2a3 1256 1255 2014-08-18T12:29:27Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 18ee3ea7c8542426cfa601e8738ed1038a5b2a69 1257 1256 2014-08-18T12:30:09Z Mikec 31 /* WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 27b74c43a2c976726cda7e3ca5b72ceba5657b63 1261 1257 2014-08-20T02:40:04Z Offcmngr 6 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ n wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-N (Group N) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 72389ca10ab3ab917539fc619a19233bf0348016 0 137 1242 1163 2014-07-07T02:41:37Z Prichter 15 Added recent scam wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Admin <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 561f16cb7535502579605529df2ae8ba9acceba7 1258 1242 2014-08-19T22:40:52Z Prichter 15 /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Admin <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] d295a1783434758f4fc50c47450fae790e2844d6 1259 1258 2014-08-19T22:43:17Z Prichter 15 /* SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 98a4f629d7b4ee5a6fb3bb2591c41e2b6c067d6f 1260 1259 2014-08-19T22:56:13Z Prichter 15 /* Scam Warnings */ Added Qantas/Virgin credit scam; added Malaysian winning scratchie travel scams wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some recently seen scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously noted as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow the link or open the PDF attachment!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 08160c6f496d950c3c7452703f5b9cb7c49d591a 0 6 1243 974 2014-08-04T02:36:46Z Offcmngr 6 info link to PCUG newsletters wikitext text/x-wiki This page is provided to link to various newsletters received from PCUG itself, affiliated organisations, and other sources. Please note that many of these newsletters are stored in the secure members area on our web server, and you will be asked to login there to access these. == [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/newsletter PCUG Newsletters] == * viewable from the main PCUG website * You will need your PCUG username and password to login. == [http://www.apcug.net APCUG] == Newsletters from the (American based) ''[http://www.apcug.net Association of Personal Computer User Groups]'': ; 2013 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q2.pdf Q2], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2013q3.pdf Q3] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jan13.pdf Jan], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Feb13.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul13.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Advisors13.pdf Advisors]. ; 2012 : [http://reports.apcug.org APCUG Reports]: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q1.pdf Q1], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/APCUG2012q2.pdf Q2] : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12.html Nov]. ; 2011 : NOOZ: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Sep11.pdf Sep], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Dec11.pdf Dec]. See also their details on [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/APCUG/NOOZ_Nov12_Offer.pdf What We Offer] (received Nov 2012). == [http://www.ascca.org.au ASCCA]== Newsletters from the ''[http://www.ascca.org.au Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association]'': ; 2013 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jan13.pdf Jan], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb13.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar13.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May13.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun13.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul13.pdf Jul]. Competitions: [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Photo_Comp13.pdf Photo] ; 2012 : [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Feb12.pdf Feb], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Mar12.pdf Mar], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_May12.pdf May], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jun12.pdf Jun], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Jul12.pdf Jul], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Aug12.pdf Aug], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Sept12.pdf Sept], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Oct12.pdf Oct], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Nov12.pdf Nov], [https://www.tip.net.au/pcug/members/newsletters/ASCCA/ASCCA_Dec12.pdf Dec]. == [http://www.connectingup.org Connecting Up/DonorTec] == Connecting Up is a not-for-profit organisation that works to unleash the power of not-for-profits in Australia and New Zealand. DonorTec provides donated and discounted technology products and services from companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Sophos and Kaspersky to eligible income tax exempt (ITE) Australian nonprofit groups. Through this program your nonprofit can access the latest products. See their [http://www.connectingup.org website] for further details. == [http://www.hobartpcgroup.org.au Hobart Computer Users Group] == Their latest newsletter is available online at [http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au http://newsletter.hobartpcgroup.org.au] ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Newsletters]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. Please also note that information published on this wiki is viewable by anyone. Please ensure any copyright on content added here grants permission for this. Otherwise save the actual item in the secure members server which restricts access to members only, and just link to it from here. [[Category:Newsletters]] 1aacabb185be8e394a1b9c136ef9414d1ed6b352 0 206 1250 1200 2014-08-18T03:56:35Z Rpeters 14 added setting procedure for Win 8(1) wikitext text/x-wiki Please do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> alter these notes unless you are a PCUG Trainer or Technical Volunteer. The notes are provided as a Quick Start Guide to Presenters, some of whom might be using the projector for the first time General guidance for using projectors/multiple displays on computers are at === Connection === ==== HDMI ==== Primary connection is now via HDMI *the 3-way HDMI switch defaults to the only powered port **normally either Trainer PC or Presenter's device **up to 2 Presenter's devices can be attached simultaneously and switched via the button on top of the switch ==== VGA ==== The projector also supports VGA *the VGA switch used is <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> automatic *#connect a "flying" VGA cable to your computer *#ensure that the purple VGA switch is set to the same cable number *#*press button in middle of switch until relevant red LED iights *#*press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote *#use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''Computer''' (VGA) at top of menu *#press enter to activate and exit menu *#*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs and your computer to "wake" *#*at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' ==== USB Drive ==== The projector supports direct display of Powerpoint presentations from a USB device #plug USB drive to projector's socket on rear #*correct any resulting misalignment of the projector image on screen #*do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> pull <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''down '''</span> on projector #*push <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''up'''</span> on relevant edge or <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''rotate'''</span> in horizonal plane #press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote #use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''USB''' on menu #press enter to activate and exit menu #*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs #use projector's remote to cycle through slides #at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' === Computer Settings === ==== Windows 8.(1) ==== #press the "windows" plus P keys simultaneously #a selection should pop-up on right of screen #*select "Dupliate" #click OK to finish Optimum resolution is *1280 x 800 for widescreen *1024 x 768 for narrow screen laptops 1b85f9d2ffce178641da0a6c49dba2985b03cd83 1251 1250 2014-08-18T04:11:19Z Rpeters 14 added procedure for setting KDE wikitext text/x-wiki Please do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> alter these notes unless you are a PCUG Trainer or Technical Volunteer. The notes are provided as a Quick Start Guide to Presenters, some of whom might be using the projector for the first time General guidance for using projectors/multiple displays on computers are at === Connection === ==== HDMI ==== Primary connection is now via HDMI *the 3-way HDMI switch defaults to the only powered port **normally either Trainer PC or Presenter's device **up to 2 Presenter's devices can be attached simultaneously and switched via the button on top of the switch ==== VGA ==== The projector also supports VGA *the VGA switch used is <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> automatic *#connect a "flying" VGA cable to your computer *#ensure that the purple VGA switch is set to the same cable number *#*press button in middle of switch until relevant red LED iights *#*press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote *#use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''Computer''' (VGA) at top of menu *#press enter to activate and exit menu *#*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs and your computer to "wake" *#*at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' ==== USB Drive ==== The projector supports direct display of Powerpoint presentations from a USB device #plug USB drive to projector's socket on rear #*correct any resulting misalignment of the projector image on screen #*do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> pull <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''down '''</span> on projector #*push <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''up'''</span> on relevant edge or <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''rotate'''</span> in horizonal plane #press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote #use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''USB''' on menu #press enter to activate and exit menu #*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs #use projector's remote to cycle through slides #at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' === Computer Settings === ==== iOS ==== TBA ==== KDE ==== #from start icon select "System Settings" #click on Display & Monitor in Hardware subsection #highlight "Display Configuration" in the left area #two large icons represent internal screen & projector #*projector on HDMI will be HDMI-0 #*projector on VGA will be VGA-0 #click on the Display Resolutions sub-icon (hover mouse to identify) #select 1280 x 800 (or next lower vertical) resolution for Projector #*resolution on laptop may be set to personal preference #drag the icon for the second screen on top of the other, to duplicate displays ==== Windows 8.(1) ==== #press the "windows" plus P keys simultaneously #a selection should pop-up on right of screen #*select "Duplicate" #click OK to finish Optimum resolution is *1280 x 800 for widescreen *1024 x 768 for narrow screen laptops 36638f6c4789654477c03c518a462b3d6d218b2a 1252 1251 2014-08-18T04:15:47Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Please do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> alter these notes unless you are a PCUG Trainer or Technical Volunteer. The notes are provided as a Quick Start Guide to Presenters, some of whom might be using the projector for the first time General guidance for using projectors/multiple displays on computers are at === Connection === ==== HDMI ==== Primary connection is now via HDMI *the 3-way HDMI switch defaults to the only powered port **normally either Trainer PC or Presenter's device **up to 2 Presenter's devices can be attached simultaneously and switched via the button on top of the switch ==== VGA ==== The projector also supports VGA *the VGA switch used is <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> automatic *#connect a "flying" VGA cable to your computer *#ensure that the purple VGA switch is set to the same cable number *#*press button in middle of switch until relevant red LED iights *#*press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote *#use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''Computer''' (VGA) at top of menu *#press enter to activate and exit menu *#*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs and your computer to "wake" *#*at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' ==== USB Drive ==== The projector supports direct display of Powerpoint presentations from a USB device #plug USB drive to projector's socket on rear #*correct any resulting misalignment of the projector image on screen #*do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> pull <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''down '''</span> on projector #*push <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''up'''</span> on relevant edge or <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''rotate'''</span> in horizonal plane #press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote #use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''USB''' on menu #press enter to activate and exit menu #*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs #use projector's remote to cycle through slides #at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' === Computer Settings === ==== iOS ==== TBA ==== KDE ==== #from start icon select "System Settings" #click on Display & Monitor in Hardware subsection #highlight "Display Configuration" in the left area #two large icons represent internal screen & projector #*projector on HDMI will be HDMI-0 #*projector on VGA will be VGA-0 #click on the Display Resolutions sub-icon (hover mouse to identify) #select 1280 x 800 (or next lower vertical) resolution for Projector #*resolution on laptop may be set to personal preference #drag the icon for the second screen on top of the other, to duplicate displays ==== Windows 7 ==== #from start button, select "connect to projector", if available #*otherwise go to Control Panel -> Display -> Settings #set displays to "duplicate" #set resolution to 1280 x 800 (or next lower vertical) ==== Windows 8.(1) ==== #press the "windows" plus P keys simultaneously #a selection should pop-up on right of screen #*select "Duplicate" #click OK to finish Optimum resolution is *1280 x 800 for widescreen *1024 x 768 for narrow screen laptops 87314ae99cdc33dc156921cd325a2ce317be9e31 1253 1252 2014-08-18T04:18:51Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Please do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> alter these notes unless you are a PCUG Trainer or Technical Volunteer. The notes are provided as a Quick Start Guide to Presenters, some of whom might be using the projector for the first time General guidance for using projectors/multiple displays on computers are at http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_an_External_Display_or_Projector_with_a_Notebook === Connection === ==== HDMI ==== Primary connection is now via HDMI *the 3-way HDMI switch defaults to the only powered port **normally either Trainer PC or Presenter's device **up to 2 Presenter's devices can be attached simultaneously and switched via the button on top of the switch ==== VGA ==== The projector also supports VGA *the VGA switch used is <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> automatic *#connect a "flying" VGA cable to your computer *#ensure that the purple VGA switch is set to the same cable number *#*press button in middle of switch until relevant red LED iights *#*press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote *#use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''Computer''' (VGA) at top of menu *#press enter to activate and exit menu *#*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs and your computer to "wake" *#*at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' ==== USB Drive ==== The projector supports direct display of Powerpoint presentations from a USB device #plug USB drive to projector's socket on rear #*correct any resulting misalignment of the projector image on screen #*do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> pull <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''down '''</span> on projector #*push <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''up'''</span> on relevant edge or <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''rotate'''</span> in horizonal plane #press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote #use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''USB''' on menu #press enter to activate and exit menu #*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs #use projector's remote to cycle through slides #at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' === Computer Settings === ==== iOS ==== TBA ==== KDE ==== #from start icon select "System Settings" #click on Display & Monitor in Hardware subsection #highlight "Display Configuration" in the left area #two large icons represent internal screen & projector #*projector on HDMI will be HDMI-0 #*projector on VGA will be VGA-0 #click on the Display Resolutions sub-icon (hover mouse to identify) #select 1280 x 800 (or next lower vertical) resolution for Projector #*resolution on laptop may be set to personal preference #drag the icon for the second screen on top of the other, to duplicate displays ==== Windows 7 ==== #from start button, select "connect to projector", if available #*otherwise go to Control Panel -> Display -> Settings #set displays to "duplicate" #set resolution to 1280 x 800 (or next lower vertical) ==== Windows 8.(1) ==== #press the "windows" plus P keys simultaneously #a selection should pop-up on right of screen #*select "Duplicate" #click OK to finish Optimum resolution is *1280 x 800 for widescreen *1024 x 768 for narrow screen laptops bea82427c56e39a2a7dbb8289693b1e059ea7ac6 0 4 1262 1207 2014-08-22T03:24:46Z Offcmngr 6 AGM info wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] fa442314a43766a86ff23289e9415d7894207874 0 88 1266 1265 2014-09-12T04:00:44Z Rpeters 14 /* For Intermediate Users */added Antergos wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ac948ee32d75764537dac8c9b2dc7a444ea002e6 0 4 1267 1262 2014-09-17T02:28:13Z Offcmngr 6 isig wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 17 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 58310ac9a0f816fb5829417eed0794c65231c51f 1268 1267 2014-09-17T02:29:08Z Offcmngr 6 /* PCUG iSig */ date correction wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] ab32663fabc1b629e6371bacb33576a223cd5b0b 1271 1268 2014-12-17T06:25:23Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Contacts */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre will be closed from 20/12/2014. * '''After that date, please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Until them phone: (02) 6287 2922, and after phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us/ Contact Us] = PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 1a547474553faf3727153e773df905365e8b3261 1272 1271 2014-12-17T06:26:22Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG iSig = */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre will be closed from 20/12/2014. * '''After that date, please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Until them phone: (02) 6287 2922, and after phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available for hire to groups in the community for $125 per hour for non-member groups, or $65 per hour for member non-profit groups. * Full details are available via our [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training PCUG Training Information page] * We are seeking support from members to assist coordinate the promotion of PCUG Training facilities in our community. *The PCUG Training room is refurbished new Dell machines, with Windows7 Operating system. *Training room hire is an under-utilized facility available to PCUG members and community groups. *Word of mouth has resulted in several hires this year. Help spread the word. See our training information page [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training] for information.<br/> == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] a4e3c3d5703fb85f4c8d8799b3596871f7a29f25 1275 1272 2014-12-24T05:57:00Z Gjpotts 16 /* Training Room for Hire */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre will be closed from 20/12/2014. * '''After that date, please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Until them phone: (02) 6287 2922, and after phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Office Manager's core days at the Office are Monday, Wednesday & Friday. * The Office is staffed by Volunteers other weekdays. * Please note that due to low activity on weekends, week-end opening times are in recess. This may be reviewed pending member demand for same. * Phone messages are monitored by the office team, with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] b755657d4d57696ff4d4b854b7705b4bed1f2321 1276 1275 2014-12-24T07:41:53Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Office Hours */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre will be closed from 20/12/2014. * '''After that date, please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Until them phone: (02) 6287 2922, and after phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> PCUG is a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 4d1171286a0b7803ae27512eb6c5fa81b4fc667f 1277 1276 2014-12-26T02:37:02Z Gjpotts 16 /* TIO */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre will be closed from 20/12/2014. * '''After that date, please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Until them phone: (02) 6287 2922, and after phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 7583a4c74c9bd16e7d354f3a685015aa5e55cd02 1278 1277 2014-12-29T04:58:43Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Changed Contact Details */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre will be closed from 20/12/2014. * '''After that date, please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Until then phone: (02) 6287 2922, and after phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 7bf6842988d0780f1a1c9ef9421a65e41f0325e8 1279 1278 2014-12-29T05:00:45Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Changed Contact Details */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] e87e920bc548df70b5384b8ca626bbe636d39926 1280 1279 2015-01-04T11:51:34Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://http://http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 82981c961094a68acd8321c73947c615184ff0e1 1281 1280 2015-01-04T11:53:23Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Changed Contact Details */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d33b6fba14e2ce141f771d8833e8016f919b994f 0 112 1269 1261 2014-09-22T03:15:08Z Offcmngr 6 Office Volunteering 8/10/2014KA wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-N (Group N) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 6c5d7d74075c8c7c14721cd85cca4637981af1bd 1273 1269 2014-12-24T02:37:28Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-N (Group N) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG Office and request an email to lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG office on 6287 2922 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG Office on 6287 2922. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 2acba63ba183f13bf700d5724f2848f850d30150 1274 1273 2014-12-24T02:42:43Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Office Manager, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-N (Group N) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f382a189070d46ca38896abb9c82e3cb1229362e 0 16 1270 1235 2014-11-05T04:49:54Z Rpeters 14 /* Writing Bootable USB/SD */ added use of lsblk command wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] d5fde0064dba72437cceec34395a5076dbebdfa2 0 54 1282 516 2015-01-06T19:00:50Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki == PCUG Main Committee == '''An overview of roles may be viewed in Part III of the group's [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/rules Rules]''' (on main Wordpress site). These define the '''four''' executive (office-bearer) positions, plus up to 10 general committee members, ie: *President *Vice President *Treasurer *Secretary *General Committee == Sub-committees == *Internet Sub-Services Committee - responsible for policy relating to TIP Internet Services *Website Sub-Committee - responsible for policy relating to design and structure of the group's websites (esp. Worpress and Info Wiki) ---- [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] af30744fc8d6d61a4b9261f051caa146056eb5fb 0 137 1283 1260 2015-01-11T02:04:50Z Prichter 15 /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ Added Jan 15 scam & intro reformat wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously recognised as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow any links or open the any attachments!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - January 2015 - Subject: WARNING CODE:VX2G99AAJ ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January 2015. Note * the from address is not even PCUG! It's <technicalunit@careceo.com> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * our admin would have already known your user name & address! * the warning code is meaningless Dear Account User, Warning Code: VX2G99AAJ This message is from our email messaging centre. Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit in our Server. You may not be able to send or receive mails in coming days. We request you upgrade your webmail account immediately by providing your account details as stated below. EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________ ACCOUNT USERNAME:______________________ PASSWORD:______________________________ Failure to reply to this email as instructed will render your email account in-active in our database. PCUG.ORG.AU ADMINISTRATOR ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] ca7bcee9793c36bd49139dd2d3aea678282894ab 0 12 1284 432 2015-01-15T05:45:12Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Following closure of the PCUG Centre at Holder, most of the previous info on this page is no longer relevant. A brief summary of some has been retained, in case needed with the remaining PCUG equipment at U3A. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === support by peripherals at U3A is unknown: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === availablity unknown === Wired === If connecting via a Cat5 cable, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === In order to use a printers at the U3A, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *not that the level of protection in the firewall at U3A has not been assessed == Mirrors == TBA == Printing == TBA == Projector == Both PCUG projectors are compatible and routinely used with Linux. === Cables === *use the HDMI cable, if your computer has a suitable socket/adaptor *otherwise use the VGA cable **it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *use the remote control ofhte projector to select the input source, according to cable type === Settings === *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. == Server == no longer accessible to members' == Training PC == no longer have Linux installed, although should be compatible with most Live CD. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:45, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2f1f2fc2a5d40a742df75c4fead05601e1194df4 1285 1284 2015-01-15T05:46:07Z Rpeters 14 revised, following closure of PCUG Centre wikitext text/x-wiki Following closure of the PCUG Centre at Holder, most of the previous info on this page is no longer relevant. A brief summary of some has been retained, in case needed with the remaining PCUG equipment at U3A. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === support by peripherals at U3A is unknown: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === availablity unknown === Wired === If connecting via a Cat5 cable, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === In order to use a printers at the U3A, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *not that the level of protection in the firewall at U3A has not been assessed == Mirrors == TBA == Printing == TBA == Projector == Both PCUG projectors are compatible and routinely used with Linux. === Cables === *use the HDMI cable, if your computer has a suitable socket/adaptor *otherwise use the VGA cable **it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *use the remote control ofhte projector to select the input source, according to cable type === Settings === *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. == Server == no longer accessible to members' == Training PC == no longer have Linux installed, although should be compatible with most Live CD. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:45, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] f472bdbf73a374f8839c1980440149eb86e14545 1302 1285 2015-01-18T02:57:29Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Following closure of the PCUG Centre at Holder, most of the previous info on this page is no longer relevant. A brief summary of some has been retained, in case needed with the remaining PCUG equipment at U3A. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === support by peripherals at U3A is unknown: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === availablity unknown === Wired === If connecting via a Cat5 cable, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === In order to use a printers at the U3A, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *not that the level of protection in the firewall at U3A has not been assessed == Mirrors == TBA == Printing == TBA == Projector == Both PCUG projectors are compatible and routinely used with Linux. === Cables === *use the HDMI cable, if your computer has a suitable socket/adaptor *otherwise use the VGA cable **it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *use the remote control ofhte projector to select the input source, according to cable type === Settings === *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. == Server == no longer accessible to members' == Training PC == no longer have Linux installed, although should be compatible with most Live CD. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:45, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: TechnicalInfo]] a7fe3095a4189b9385693f118da1ab9588916b1d 1303 1302 2015-01-18T02:58:16Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Following closure of the PCUG Centre at Holder, most of the previous info on this page is no longer relevant. A brief summary of some has been retained, in case needed with the remaining PCUG equipment at U3A. == LAN/Internet == === IPv6 === support by peripherals at U3A is unknown: *IPv6 may be left enabled on your computer *if doing so, then preferably disable DHCP6 (temporariliy) to improve network connection speed. === WiFi === availablity unknown === Wired === If connecting via a Cat5 cable, then a network configuration of '''DHCP''' or '''obtain address automatically''' should provide access to the LAN '''and''' Internet *avoid using '''static''' addressing, which is likely to either: **be in the wrong network and not work at all or **clash with other addresses on the LAN === Firewall Setting === In order to use a printers at the U3A, the firewall on your computer may need to have the Ethernet zone set to '''Trusted/Internal/Open''' *not that the level of protection in the firewall at U3A has not been assessed == Mirrors == TBA == Printing == TBA == Projector == Both PCUG projectors are compatible and routinely used with Linux. === Cables === *use the HDMI cable, if your computer has a suitable socket/adaptor *otherwise use the VGA cable **it is usually necessary to bypass the video splitter box, which appears not to pass projector/monitor parameters the the computer *use the remote control ofhte projector to select the input source, according to cable type === Settings === *log out and relog in to the computer after connecting the projector **in some cases it may be necessary to reboot the computer, in order for the projector to be correctly recognised **most notebooks/netbooks require that the output to the projector be configured as a '''second''' "monitor" *see the article ''Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook'' in this wiki, for further guidance and troubleshooting == Scanners == The high resolution '''Canon''' scanner is '''not''' Linux compatible *scans produced with it using Windows can be saved to formats which are Linux compatible **lossless formats such as TIFF, PNG or PNM may be the best choice for images that are to be enhanced. == Server == no longer accessible to members' == Training PC == no longer have Linux installed, although should be compatible with most Live CD. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:45, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] 66b322a63ba8660e471a93b330c98cab44e81c35 0 7 1286 1197 2015-01-15T05:47:18Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ added security page wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== * [[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a87da5c7fe1d9e6a7de1913ff39024f61fcc300b 1289 1286 2015-01-15T06:01:12Z Rpeters 14 /* Backup */ added section Clonezilla wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 66892662bb1dba93c9b06f881e1b798b01ab35b6 1297 1289 2015-01-17T22:12:02Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */added page for Migration Guide wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 99ec7d114a9dbc010522c617abd287dad489e666 1299 1297 2015-01-18T02:44:54Z Rpeters 14 /* Computer Systems */ added cross-platform wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 42a4422af124dc55b7032c0f6de27a073d23ff0f 1300 1299 2015-01-18T02:46:18Z Rpeters 14 /* Cross-Platform */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 7ac7c7fe73e95b035f14ed81a6f9a51f6dcdd15a 0 207 1287 2015-01-15T05:57:41Z Rpeters 14 added summary of recommendations for Linux users wikitext text/x-wiki A common question asked by those new (and not so new) to Linux is what Firewall/anti-virus/anti-spyware is needed. #a Firewall is essential with any networked computer #*most Linux install and enable an SPI firewall by default #**if "lsmod" includes "IPTables" in its listing then a firewall is enabled #*an SPI firewall in a router is also advisable #**NB - many routers default this to "DISABLED" - be certain to enable it. #*having both firewalls enabled simultaneously is unlikely to cause problems #anti-virus is completely unnecessary with Linux #*don't be ripped-off for it #anti-spyware in Linux relies on an informed user --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:57, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] 11c6714c5122cccd9adc4d6faabfe00bc8a8863c 1288 1287 2015-01-15T05:58:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki A common question asked by those new (and not so new) to Linux is what Firewall/anti-virus/anti-spyware is needed. #a Firewall is essential with any networked computer #*most Linux install and enable an SPI firewall by default #**if "lsmod" includes "IPTables" in its listing then a firewall is enabled #*an SPI firewall in a router is also advisable #**NB - many routers default this to "DISABLED" - be certain to enable it. #*having both firewalls enabled simultaneously is unlikely to cause problems #anti-virus is completely unnecessary with Linux #*don't be ripped-off for it #anti-spyware in Linux relies on an informed user --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:57, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] bcbce7a5fa1d5ede4e67ff9846656866b2f7f5d7 1293 1288 2015-01-15T06:17:41Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki A common question asked by those new (and not so new) to Linux is what Firewall/anti-virus/anti-spyware is needed. #a Firewall is essential with any networked computer #*most Linux install and enable an SPI firewall by default #**if "lsmod" includes "IPTables" in its listing then a firewall is enabled #*an SPI firewall in a router is also advisable #**NB - many routers default this to "DISABLED" - be certain to enable it. #*having both firewalls enabled simultaneously is unlikely to cause problems #anti-virus is completely unnecessary with Linux #*don't be ripped-off for it #anti-spyware in Linux relies on an informed user --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:57, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2d1294fb78428034c16ac6b34babeb328517c218 0 208 1290 2015-01-15T06:12:20Z Rpeters 14 added outline of Clonezilla wikitext text/x-wiki Clonezilla is a free program for backing up complete Operating Systems and optionally restoring them to HDD of equal or larger size *recent releases can also restore to a smaller HDD, provided that the used space is smaller than the HDD. It is not well suited to routine data backup, although users data within the partition(s) will be backed up. Be certain to read the documentation thoroughly before using Clonezilla, particularly if cloning MS Windows system, where the process has many "gotchas" Clonezilla may be downloaded from http://clonezilla.org Alternatively, a more general purpose utility CD ISO image containing it may be purchased from http://partedmagic.com/ --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:12, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] 64f3b0a5cbcf9128f60529e3a157065f7688e565 1291 1290 2015-01-15T06:12:40Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Clonezilla is a free program for backing up complete Operating Systems and optionally restoring them to HDD of equal or larger size *recent releases can also restore to a smaller HDD, provided that the used space is smaller than the HDD. It is not well suited to routine data backup, although users data within the partition(s) will be backed up. Be certain to read the documentation thoroughly before using Clonezilla, particularly if cloning MS Windows system, where the process has many "gotchas" Clonezilla may be downloaded from http://clonezilla.org Alternatively, a more general purpose utility CD ISO image containing it may be purchased from http://partedmagic.com/ --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:12, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] 7e4e00cf067ccc32b3f33f0631e535d212cd69b5 1292 1291 2015-01-15T06:17:19Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Clonezilla is a free program for backing up complete Operating Systems and optionally restoring them to HDD of equal or larger size *recent releases can also restore to a smaller HDD, provided that the used space is smaller than the HDD. It is not well suited to routine data backup, although users data within the partition(s) will be backed up. Be certain to read the documentation thoroughly before using Clonezilla, particularly if cloning MS Windows system, where the process has many "gotchas" Clonezilla may be downloaded from http://clonezilla.org Alternatively, a more general purpose utility CD ISO image containing it may be purchased from http://partedmagic.com/ --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:12, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 56ff932add63986ca484bd671a7c7c26d5d058d6 0 118 1294 700 2015-01-15T06:18:42Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Support == #booting and utilising GPT-partitioned disks is supported by the kernel (from late 2.6 kernels) & core utilities #*many distributions, particularly smalller ones, do not implement this support by default #**a pointer to lack of support is that the live-CD boots & runs normally, but the installer finds no suitable HDD == Pre-Requisites == === Bootloader === either #GPT-aware bootloader #*patched GRUB >= 0.97 #*GRUB 2 #*elilo #second boot device #*CD/DVD #*USB #*MBR HDD === Kernel & Utilities === #the bootloader, wherever located, must then boot an operating system, that is GPT-aware == Transition Phase == GPT is part of the emerging UEFI environment for computers. Various combinations of pre-UEFI & UEFI equipment will cause complications during the transition phase. For more detail and solutions to some combinations see http://www.rodsbooks.com http://www.ibm.com/developerworks/linux/library/l-gpt/index.html As a general rule, the following combinations can be booted directly: #BIOS mainboard firmware (or UEFI firmware behaving as a BIOS) plus GPT partitioned HDD #*HDD requires (first) partition '''pre-configured''' as type ef02 '''and''' #*"apparent partition 1" '''pre-configured''' with boot flag, using fdisk or cfdisk #**'''non-GPT''' tools must be used to set this flag #UEFI mainboard firmware plus GPT partitioned HDD #*Linux installer should set this up automatically by #**creating partition 1 as type ef00 and formatting as FAT32 #**installing UEFI & GPT aware bootloader --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]09:34, 22 October 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] fb3af96dc26313000ee4a6c3b69bc97497b9da2a 1307 1294 2015-01-18T03:00:48Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Support == #booting and utilising GPT-partitioned disks is supported by the kernel (from late 2.6 kernels) & core utilities #*many distributions, particularly smalller ones, do not implement this support by default #**a pointer to lack of support is that the live-CD boots & runs normally, but the installer finds no suitable HDD == Pre-Requisites == === Bootloader === either #GPT-aware bootloader #*patched GRUB >= 0.97 #*GRUB 2 #*elilo #second boot device #*CD/DVD #*USB #*MBR HDD === Kernel & Utilities === #the bootloader, wherever located, must then boot an operating system, that is GPT-aware == Transition Phase == GPT is part of the emerging UEFI environment for computers. Various combinations of pre-UEFI & UEFI equipment will cause complications during the transition phase. For more detail and solutions to some combinations see http://www.rodsbooks.com http://www.ibm.com/developerworks/linux/library/l-gpt/index.html As a general rule, the following combinations can be booted directly: #BIOS mainboard firmware (or UEFI firmware behaving as a BIOS) plus GPT partitioned HDD #*HDD requires (first) partition '''pre-configured''' as type ef02 '''and''' #*"apparent partition 1" '''pre-configured''' with boot flag, using fdisk or cfdisk #**'''non-GPT''' tools must be used to set this flag #UEFI mainboard firmware plus GPT partitioned HDD #*Linux installer should set this up automatically by #**creating partition 1 as type ef00 and formatting as FAT32 #**installing UEFI & GPT aware bootloader --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]09:34, 22 October 2012 (EST) --[[Category: Technical Info]] 81a373d8e779432fe6194d85be9904428aef6775 0 174 1295 908 2015-01-15T06:19:47Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a 32-bit Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display an error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:19, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] d5774a2bc6ce333a8e64fccbebbd9b41193df99f 1296 1295 2015-01-15T06:20:07Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit only ISO is available and it is only ~ 200 MB. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. *a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a 32-bit Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display an error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:19, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 0ff79d1d70b483af1028c5a88a48e5df78460c86 0 209 1298 2015-01-17T22:20:02Z Rpeters 14 added link to openSUSE documentation wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The following link contains tips, suitable for beginners, on trying out and possibly migrating to Linux [https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:How_to_migrate_from_Windows Migration Guide] Much can be evaluated from Windows (or iOS, possibly from Android) --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:20, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) --[Category: Technical Info] c7263c61ac252fc1415dacf930eb6ecc468fe7da 1310 1298 2015-01-18T03:04:37Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The following link contains tips, suitable for beginners, on trying out and possibly migrating to Linux [https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:How_to_migrate_from_Windows Migration Guide] Much can be evaluated from Windows (or iOS, possibly from Android) --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:20, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] 6976b0e6a09510386e111fa417269c3c6acf7b25 1312 1310 2015-01-18T03:07:38Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The following link contains tips, suitable for beginners, on trying out and possibly migrating to Linux [https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:How_to_migrate_from_Windows Migration Guide] Much can be evaluated from Windows (or iOS, possibly from Android) --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:20, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] bba2a0581cc7fee180c52549f7cb9b3a3863ca73 0 210 1301 2015-01-18T02:56:14Z Rpeters 14 added link to most commonly used Apps wikitext text/x-wiki The following sections list many Apps that work on various OS. These can be useful if documents needed to be portable or in preparation for migration to a different OS. == For General Users == [https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:How_to_migrate_from_Windows#Install_Windows_versions_of_free_or_open_source_programs apps] The above link lists the most popular apps. Many other free Apps are available for various OS - check the home-page for the App to obtain versions for different OS --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:56, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: TechnicalInfo]] 8a2b3ec7a0182f56a50bce06c2b3a72b6a2ef54a 1313 1301 2015-01-18T03:08:23Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki The following sections list many Apps that work on various OS. These can be useful if documents needed to be portable or in preparation for migration to a different OS. == For General Users == [https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:How_to_migrate_from_Windows#Install_Windows_versions_of_free_or_open_source_programs apps] The above link lists the most popular apps. Many other free Apps are available for various OS - check the home-page for the App to obtain versions for different OS --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:56, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 4668b7cdf35da8ee2ec9a21dc99174c86ba5f266 0 128 1304 616 2015-01-18T02:58:49Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Additional HDD require changes in system settings, in order to be visible and accessible. Exact changes depend on whether the storage is for system or user files. Additionall HDD must be partitioned, including if only one partititon is required *as of 2012, most new HDD are sold pre-parttitioned GPT, with a single partition *for guidance on changing partitioning see [[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] == File Migration == The simplest approach is to install additional HDD '''before''' any systems are installed or data created. If that is not feasible then any existing files/folders at the intended mount point need to be migrated #ensure that the files to be migrated are firstly backed up to independent media #as user root mount the new partition to a temporary point, typically /mnt #cd to the mount point that will later be used permantly for the new partition #use the "cp -ax" command to copy all files from within the folder of the mount point to ./mnt/ #*do not use use file managers for this purpose, because those may set incorrect timestamps, permisisons etc for files #unount from the temporary point #set the permanent mount point (and change permissions, if necessary) as in sections "User Storage" or "System Storage" below #the above procedure '''duplicates''' existing files. To remove the originals: #*temporarily '''unmount''' the new partition #*delete all files in the folder of the permanent mount point #*remount the new partition to its permanent mount point == User Storage == #a '''permanent''' mount point is required #*mount points /mnt & /media are for temporary mounts #*LSB makes no recommendations for permanent extra HDD #*suggested mount points are "/data" for LInux data or "/windows/C" for Windows drives #*admin tools such as Synaptic, Yast2 etc can be used to create and set mount points #user permissions for the '''mount point''' #*in the above example. recursively change the Group for /data to (say) "users" #*in the above example. recursively change the Owner for /data to the principal user #**if other users are also to have access to the additional storage then Group permisisons for /data need to be relaxed #*changes may be made via "File Manager - Super User Mode", if system allows that mode #*else use "chgrp" & "chown" commands == System Storage == #only the mount point need be changed #*admin tools such as Synaptic, Yast2 etc can be used to set mount points #*second HDD are likely to be most beneficially used in SOHO systems for one of /usr, /home or /srv [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]22:10, 20 September 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] db5b1a845d9536f4b12fbf7712051971e0945669 0 92 1305 449 2015-01-18T02:59:25Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">'''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 4a4efb4239427b72aea85f070cdf792b1f4a37b5 1306 1305 2015-01-18T02:59:44Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">'''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] d74b07b03df68e79e817a297dc80d5850eec735e 0 152 1308 699 2015-01-18T03:02:26Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki KDE 4 is a substantial re-work of KDE. An overview is provided with most Distributions and at: http://www.kde.org An aspect causing much difficulty is migrating data to the new Personal Information Manager - Kontact #essential to '''copy''' each users PIM data, as described in KMail manual, FAQ # 6.11 #*using the commands cp - a or rsync -av Those migrating from KDE 3 to KDE 4 need to pick a "quiet time" because many other apps have been replaced or substantially changed --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:02, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] 4a81f31cf5349097143fa90434e679c201c3333e 1309 1308 2015-01-18T03:02:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki KDE 4 is a substantial re-work of KDE. An overview is provided with most Distributions and at: http://www.kde.org An aspect causing much difficulty is migrating data to the new Personal Information Manager - Kontact #essential to '''copy''' each users PIM data, as described in KMail manual, FAQ # 6.11 #*using the commands cp - a or rsync -av Those migrating from KDE 3 to KDE 4 need to pick a "quiet time" because many other apps have been replaced or substantially changed --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:02, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] 95e92d3dbee878a119d0d039d8863b31ec8349e6 0 157 1311 1168 2015-01-18T03:06:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki The new technologies being introduced with PC & disk drives manufactured in 2011 and later include the core technology of UEFI firmware and its related technologies: *AF disk drives *GPT disk partitioning *EFI boot routine *Secure Boot (within the UEFI firmware) More detailed guidelines, help and recommendations are available from: http://rodsbooks.com Many mainboards that were manufactured by Intel from 2006 include (U)EFI, but are likely to require upgrading to the latest available firmware release, in order to work reliably with the first three technologies above. Intel provide an ISO image of a bootable CD, which allows the upgrade to be done without Windows. == EFI Boot == The EFI bootloader within UEFI is capable of booting a kernel image directly, provided that the image has an extension of .efi. Getting this working, directly, requires being able to add to the boot entries in the mainboard's setup and this feature is not implemented on all mainboards. After entering the mainboard's setup, folllow the trail: Boot tab -> Boot Priority -> Add entry Workarounds include: #many current Linux installer routines will place an entry for a bootloader (eg grub.efi, although it is likely to be named after the distro) in the mainboard's boot priority list #the rEFInd boot manager from the above site will place an entry for itself in the mainboard's list. #*rEFInd is more flexible, being able to select various boot devices: #** a bootloader such as grub.efi #** a CD or USB boot device or #** a kernel file having .efi extension #*rEFInd also presents an attractive boot menu, having icon-interface EFI boot looks for FAT32 partitions having type code ef00 (type ESP). Contemporary kernel + initrd occupy > 20 MB. An ESP of several hundred MB is advisable if many OS will be installed on the PC or if older kernels are being retained. == Secure Boot == The only reliable way to ensure that Linux will work with a computer that has secure boot is to disable secure boot: The UEFI specification does provide for Secure Boot to be able to be disabled *AMI provide this feature in their UEFI (although hardware makers might not implement it) *Award/Phoenix ? Linux users are advised not to purchase a new computer (desktop or laptop) without first confirming that it will boot Linux (eg from CD Live CD or installed to USB stick) Secure boot '''can''' be disabled on the following models: === Acer Notebooks === #Completely shut down your computer #power up/reboot and press F2 #Use the right arrow key to select Security #Use the down arrow key to highlight Set Supervisor Password and press Enter. #Create a password and press Enter. Retype the password to confirm and press Enter again. #Use the right arrow key to select Boot. #Press the down arrow key to select Secure Boot and press Enter. #With the arrow key, highlight Disabled and press Enter. #Press the F10 key and select Yes to save the changes and exit the BIOS. === Samsung Notebooks === #Restart the computer and press 'F2' key 4-5 times to access ‘BIOS Setup’. #Press 'F9' key to initialize the 'BIOS' settings. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. #Restart the computer and immediately begin pressing 'F2' key 4-5 times to access ‘BIOS Setup’. #Go to 'Boot' menu. #Set the 'Secure Boot' option to [Disabled], and set the 'OS Mode Selection' menu to [CSM OS]. #Set the ‘Fast BIOS Mode’ in the ’Advanced’ menu to [Disabled]. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. #Select the 'Boot Device Priority' in the 'Boot' menu then press 'F5' or 'F6' key to move the DVD to top position. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. http://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers/samsung/15-notebook-sku-90670/ [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]14:03, 18 Freruary 2014 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 81b40e35e3ec2ce408559d37a3ca9f53e926b287 0 165 1314 1264 2015-01-18T03:09:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers may not have been **LibreOffice allows selection Print Properties -> Device -> Prlinter Language to be changed to Postscript, on a per job basis === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices scan via USB interface only and not via network. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 56be5b4c6a08b58cc85dc30b31fd2ab193ac9892 0 166 1315 1116 2015-01-18T03:11:29Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner *Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS *SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model **check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported *most Linux distributions use the same scanning software **XSane is the most capable **scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps === Selection Guideance === #check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model #'''download''' and '''install''' relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project #*this can usually be done without the scanner physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Scanner Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network *HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners **most Epson devices support scanning via USB only (not via network) === Apps === Adjustments are needed to scan documents for archives or images for emailing. Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality *XSane **can also be used via GIMP *SimpleScan *Vuescan (free version) also works well **no installation instructions **good user manual **not open source and might be difficult to support Note that many of these apps default to high-resolution, full colour settings, aimed at photos. *Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans *B&W/Lineart settings might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents === Troubleshooting === If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check: *scanner/multi-function powered UP *connection via USB or LAN made *relevant driver installed --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 11:35, 18 December 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 6ab09f26fb19390638b447d2162894d311b6f10f 0 206 1316 1253 2015-01-18T03:15:42Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Please do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> alter these notes unless you are a PCUG Trainer or Technical Volunteer. The notes are provided as a Quick Start Guide to Presenters, some of whom might be using the projector for the first time *Although PCUG no longer has its own Training Room, it still has the projectors to which these notes apply General guidance for using projectors/multiple displays on computers are at http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_an_External_Display_or_Projector_with_a_Notebook === Connection === ==== HDMI ==== Primary connection is now via HDMI *the 3-way HDMI switch defaults to the only powered port **normally either Trainer PC or Presenter's device **up to 2 Presenter's devices can be attached simultaneously and switched via the button on top of the switch ==== VGA ==== The projector also supports VGA *the VGA switch used is <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> automatic *#connect a "flying" VGA cable to your computer *#ensure that the purple VGA switch is set to the same cable number *#*press button in middle of switch until relevant red LED iights *#*press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote *#use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''Computer''' (VGA) at top of menu *#press enter to activate and exit menu *#*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs and your computer to "wake" *#*at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' ==== USB Drive ==== The projector supports direct display of Powerpoint presentations from a USB device #plug USB drive to projector's socket on rear #*correct any resulting misalignment of the projector image on screen #*do <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''not'''</span> pull <span style="color:#c93800; ">'''down '''</span> on projector #*push <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''up'''</span> on relevant edge or <span style="color:#2f7a04; ">'''rotate'''</span> in horizonal plane #press '''INPUT''' button on prjector remote #use up/down arrow keys on remote to select '''USB''' on menu #press enter to activate and exit menu #*allow about 15 seconds for projector to switch inputs #use projector's remote to cycle through slides #at end of session, return input to '''HDMI''' === Computer Settings === ==== iOS ==== TBA ==== KDE ==== #from start icon select "System Settings" #click on Display & Monitor in Hardware subsection #highlight "Display Configuration" in the left area #two large icons represent internal screen & projector #*projector on HDMI will be HDMI-0 #*projector on VGA will be VGA-0 #click on the Display Resolutions sub-icon (hover mouse to identify) #select 1280 x 800 (or next lower vertical) resolution for Projector #*resolution on laptop may be set to personal preference #drag the icon for the second screen on top of the other, to duplicate displays ==== Windows 7 ==== #from start button, select "connect to projector", if available #*otherwise go to Control Panel -> Display -> Settings #set displays to "duplicate" #set resolution to 1280 x 800 (or next lower vertical) ==== Windows 8.(1) ==== #press the "windows" plus P keys simultaneously #a selection should pop-up on right of screen #*select "Duplicate" #click OK to finish Optimum resolution is *1280 x 800 for widescreen *1024 x 768 for narrow screen laptops [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 348ba2ee6a1f7e07927d60375520837f4f1e1264 0 35 1317 479 2015-01-18T03:20:28Z Rpeters 14 added recommendation to use brown colour for temporary prints wikitext text/x-wiki == Automatic Cleaning == #some contemporary ink-jet printers do a periodic automatic clean of the heads, if not used frequently #*this may happen when the printer is not powered up *#it is better to leave standby power permantly ON for this reason #a form of "automatic cleaning" is to do draft and other temporary printing in "chocolate brown" text colour #*this exercises all '''four''' colours in the head [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]08:02, 31 August 2012 (EST) == Manual Cleaning == But for those not wishing to replace their printer, do a Google for "Cleaning inkjet printers". I found many things there which would have helped me 3 years ago such as the need to soak heads in a solvent such as isopropyl alcohol (available from [http://www.dse.com.au/cgi-bin/dse.storefront Dick Smith] at $7.99 for a 250 ml bottle for of ISO PRO Cleaner Pump Spray), for possibly about 4 days www.weeno.com. A more powerful solvent "Print Head Clog Buster" from inkmizer is described by [http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/article_pages/inkjet_cleaning.html], again requiring soaking for possibly several days. Also less drastic alternatives are suggested such as Windex glass cleaner and a 50% ammonia solution. For those interested in more detail I am particularly impressed by [http://www.channelphoto-media.co.uk/html/pigment-or-dye.html] Jeff - 18/Jul/12 The following site has suggestions for printheads from many brands and models http://www.ehow.com/printheads/ I followed the recommendations in this article and got a clogged, pigment head working fine *note that '''hot''' water is used *ideally the head needs partial dis-assembly http://www.ehow.com/how_5195058_clean-clogged-canon-printhead.html [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:30, 31 August 2012 (EST) -- [[Category:Technical Info]] e6fbbccbc92874126bca84c1d37fdfbf4e4618b5 1318 1317 2015-01-18T03:21:21Z Rpeters 14 added recommendation to use brown colour for temporary prints wikitext text/x-wiki == Automatic Cleaning == #some contemporary ink-jet printers do a periodic automatic clean of the heads, if not used frequently #*this may happen when the printer is not powered up #*it is better to leave standby power permantly ON for this reason #a form of "automatic cleaning" is to do draft and other temporary printing in "chocolate brown" text colour #*this exercises all '''four''' colours in the head [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]08:02, 31 August 2012 (EST) == Manual Cleaning == But for those not wishing to replace their printer, do a Google for "Cleaning inkjet printers". I found many things there which would have helped me 3 years ago such as the need to soak heads in a solvent such as isopropyl alcohol (available from [http://www.dse.com.au/cgi-bin/dse.storefront Dick Smith] at $7.99 for a 250 ml bottle for of ISO PRO Cleaner Pump Spray), for possibly about 4 days www.weeno.com. A more powerful solvent "Print Head Clog Buster" from inkmizer is described by [http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/article_pages/inkjet_cleaning.html], again requiring soaking for possibly several days. Also less drastic alternatives are suggested such as Windex glass cleaner and a 50% ammonia solution. For those interested in more detail I am particularly impressed by [http://www.channelphoto-media.co.uk/html/pigment-or-dye.html] Jeff - 18/Jul/12 The following site has suggestions for printheads from many brands and models http://www.ehow.com/printheads/ I followed the recommendations in this article and got a clogged, pigment head working fine *note that '''hot''' water is used *ideally the head needs partial dis-assembly http://www.ehow.com/how_5195058_clean-clogged-canon-printhead.html [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:30, 31 August 2012 (EST) -- [[Category:Technical Info]] fe0f08cd33202fc32ce1f35faeb59b9a2d666f3b 0 110 1319 884 2015-01-18T03:32:41Z Rpeters 14 added hint to configure default format for saving documents wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export a range of documents as well *PDF *DOC & dotDOCX documents *XLS *PPT. === Documentation === *comprhensive editing help is available via the HELP menu within openoffice variants *LibreOffice additionally provide a conventional user guides that may be downloaded in dotODT or dotPDF format http://www.libreoffice.org/get-help/documentation/ === LibreOffice === A major upgrade to version 4 was released in February 2013. *significant change in menu structures *conversion guide available from above documentation repository === Configuration === Many settings can be set/changed vie Tools -> Options If many documents will be interchanged with people who don't use OpenOffice then default format for saving can be set via -> Load/Save -> General *then select the document format for text, spreadsheet etc docs [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]12:29, 11 March 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ba2f42a1f064db0c72075b6eb01df294b5de0ad2 1320 1319 2015-01-18T03:33:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export a range of documents as well *PDF *DOC & dotDOCX documents *XLS *PPT. === Documentation === *comprhensive editing help is available via the HELP menu within openoffice variants *LibreOffice additionally provide a conventional user guides that may be downloaded in dotODT or dotPDF format http://www.libreoffice.org/get-help/documentation/ === LibreOffice === A major upgrade to version 4 was released in February 2013. *significant change in menu structures *conversion guide available from above documentation repository === Configuration === Many settings can be set/changed via: -> Tools -> Options If many documents will be interchanged with people who don't use OpenOffice then default format for saving can be set via -> Load/Save -> General *then select the document format for text, spreadsheet etc docs [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]12:29, 11 March 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 527e5565b94385aa3ae0bccf51e4c66e55bc80b6 0 114 1321 556 2015-01-18T03:40:43Z Rpeters 14 added section re TRIM command wikitext text/x-wiki == Getting Technical == === Disk Controller === Most SSD have SATA III (6 Gb/s) Interface. Older mainboards having only SATA II controllers *will deliver only half the advertised speed *might not operate an SSD at all === Support for TRIM === SSD require periodic use of the TRIM command *if an SSD reports "disk full" and deleting files fails to create usable space then that is an indication that TRIM is either not implemented or not supported [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:35, 5 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 529d7a68d1ae5173e9886d0a742b518fb66e5cd4 0 116 1322 810 2015-01-18T03:46:59Z Rpeters 14 added ref to Ver 2 & B+ models wikitext text/x-wiki A growing body of information is available at http://www.raspberrypi.org Only a few '''critical''' issues, that are easily overlooked, are summarised below == Models == Most will purchase the model B, which has Ethernet and more USB ports The second release of model B has 512 MB RAM in lieu 256 MB *likely to increase the variety of OS that are usable *earlier boards are not upgradeable, because all components are soldered in place == Case == The basic product is sold without a case. It does not fit in any "standard" blank case and has sockets on both sides as well as all four edges, making construction of a suitable case not a simple task. Cases are now being sold on the Raspberry Pi site. Alternatively, third-party cases are also marketed The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case": *applies to the original (ver 1 - although not labelled as such) RPi *does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is below Ver 1 and model B+ have two and four mounting holes respectively. *conventional plastic standoffs could be used in any "case" [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case == Circuit Board == Power is supplied via the micro-USB connector at one end. The surface-mounted capacitor behind that connector is a known physical weak-point. *do not grip the board by that capacitor *preferably leave the micro-USB power cable permanently plugged in and power ON?OFF by either **powering the plug-pack/USB-hub ON?OFF or **disconnecting the other end of the power cable == Power Supply == #A raspberry pi draws 0.7A (700 mA) of '''regulated''' 5V power, which is beyond the capacity of most: #*USB sockets on a computer #*mains-USB plug packs #Suitable power supplies include #*mains-USB plug packs rated at 1A #**preferably having a '''single''' USB socket only #*USB-hubs capable to delivering 1 A to a '''single''' USB socket #**"Zipp" brand from Big W does - but check before purchasing #although the use of a USB-hub as a power source is deprecated by the manufacturers, it has been used sucessfully by the developers at http://www.ipfire.org. Critical factors are: #*regulated power to the hub #*1 A available to a single socket [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]12:53, 26 January 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 76d098dfc6dd4106fe052180d10021b9098cd338 1323 1322 2015-01-18T03:48:42Z Rpeters 14 added ref to Ver 2 & B+ models wikitext text/x-wiki A growing body of information is available at http://www.raspberrypi.org Only a few '''critical''' issues, that are easily overlooked, are summarised below == Models == Most will purchase the model B, which has Ethernet and more USB ports The second release of model B has 512 MB RAM in lieu 256 MB *likely to increase the variety of OS that are usable *earlier boards are not upgradeable, because all components are soldered in place == Case == The basic product is sold without a case. It does not fit in any "standard" blank case and has sockets on both sides as well as all four edges, making construction of a suitable case not a simple task. Cases are now being sold on the Raspberry Pi site. Alternatively, third-party cases are also marketed The two (only) chips on RPi can get quite hot in operation. Small, self-adhesive heatsinks are now available from: http://geekroo.com/site/ ==== Heat Load ==== Quick Start Guide from distributor RS Components recommends: *"use in well-ventillated area" *"should not be covered" It's debatable whether or hot the majority of cases being sold meet the above criteria. ==== Alternatives to Cases ==== A DIY cover can be made usiing discarded CD media. The original concept was at http://discpi.vkspartak.sk/ That "case": *applies to the original (ver 1 - although not labelled as such) RPi *does not anchor the RPi down and dimensions for accuately positioning the plastic supports are not provided. A variation, including critical dimensions is below Ver 1 and model B+ have two and four mounting holes respectively. *conventional plastic standoffs could be used in any "case" [[Image:Raspberry_Pi_CD_Case.png]] Some construction factors to note, In either variant *RPi have been produced on at least two production lines **precise dimensions of the board might vary **check prior to construction, preferably using '''plastic''' vernier calipers **adjust position of supports accordingly *single plastic disks/CD media, although quite tough, are fairly flexible **two can be "laminated" together to form each of the top and base **the plastic in them is not tolerant of most solvents/glues - alternative is to place near the perimeter: **several small dots of hot-melt glue '''or''' **several strips of (non-foam) "double-sided" tape *metal components of the case must be well insulated *surprising force is required to insert/remove the SD Card & USB plugs, in particular. The supports must resist horizontal movement of the board *the board is offset longitudinally towards the USB/RJ45 end, in order to: **facilitate insertion removal of USB/Ethernet plugs **prevent SD card overhanging case *a minimium standoff of about 7 mm is required for board above lower CD.to facilitate insertion/removal of plugs *if actual CD media are used (in lieu of plastic spacers from CD stacks) then the reflective sides must face '''inwards''' **top sides of media can be conductive aluminium **clear any drillled holes of flaked aluminium swarf **reflective surfaces aid monitoring of the RPi's five tell-tale LED *drill CD media at '''slow''' speed **otherwise the plastic is inclined to melt and clog drlll bits *on early production (at least) of the RPi model B, the Ethernet socket is not well anchored **desirable to adhere plastic spacers above it so the top CD holds it down *a discarded case from a stack of 20/25 CD/DVD media can be used to protect the "CD-RPi" during transport **need to cut off the central spigot of the media case == Circuit Board == Power is supplied via the micro-USB connector at one end. The surface-mounted capacitor behind that connector is a known physical weak-point. *do not grip the board by that capacitor *preferably leave the micro-USB power cable permanently plugged in and power ON?OFF by either **powering the plug-pack/USB-hub ON?OFF or **disconnecting the other end of the power cable == Power Supply == #A raspberry pi draws 0.7A (700 mA) of '''regulated''' 5V power, which is beyond the capacity of most: #*USB sockets on a computer #*mains-USB plug packs #Suitable power supplies include #*mains-USB plug packs rated at 1A #**preferably having a '''single''' USB socket only #*USB-hubs capable to delivering 1 A to a '''single''' USB socket #**"Zipp" brand from Big W does - but check before purchasing #although the use of a USB-hub as a power source is deprecated by the manufacturers, it has been used sucessfully by the developers at http://www.ipfire.org. Critical factors are: #*regulated power to the hub #*1 A available to a single socket [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]12:53, 26 January 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] e2ea334aea37314437df0b60c5c19b6c1207d708 0 7 1324 1300 2015-01-20T05:02:24Z Rpeters 14 /* Monitors & Projectors */ added full screen mode wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e57701712bdd9c7eaa1cf932e7833f5c36023582 1340 1324 2015-03-12T22:13:53Z Rpeters 14 /* Printers */added topic of printing via network wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 2b4a0d337bd8f79ff60da47056ff4151966ec2b3 1360 1340 2015-03-31T04:16:25Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Installation]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 9d7022f76963f1913bcf3efadf46871a49259e0c 1363 1360 2015-03-31T04:19:53Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Installation]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 26f369aefbc97897b642656479384eecc4ddb9b6 1365 1363 2015-03-31T04:20:50Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Installation]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 240900d5c87d99a608eace07482939c6ac43072f 0 211 1325 2015-01-20T05:10:35Z Rpeters 14 outline of Full-Screen mode wikitext text/x-wiki Full-Screen mode displays only the contents of the document *all other window decorations are not displayed in this mode **menus **sroll bars **status bar at bottom of screen The mode is very useful when using a projector *enlarges displayed object somewhat *does not display extraneous window decorations The generally used method of exiting Full Screen Mode and returning to normal display is to press ESC key. Many Apps have Full-Screen Mode, including *LibreOffice *Firefox *PDF readers Full-Screen Mode is most effective when the document has been prepared in '''Landscape''' orientation --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:10, 20 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] e9aa9256c8c1cfc1fd02940d66d1437b23add432 1326 1325 2015-01-20T05:13:51Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Full-Screen mode displays only the contents of the document *all other window decorations are not displayed in this mode **menus **sroll bars **status bar at bottom of screen The mode is very useful when using a projector *enlarges displayed object somewhat *does not display extraneous window decorations Essential navigation tools, PgUp, PgDn, mouse clicks continue having their usual effect in Full-Screen mode The generally used method of exiting Full Screen Mode and returning to normal display is to press ESC key. Many recent verions of Apps have Full-Screen Mode, including *LibreOffice *Firefox *PDF readers Full-Screen Mode is at its most effective when the document has been prepared in '''Landscape''' orientation --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:10, 20 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] 9ac540d7c8343f0dd2c76888b20a1b18e1d56aed 1327 1326 2015-01-20T05:24:50Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Full Screen Mode is also known as Presentation Mode Full-Screen mode displays only the contents of the document *all other window decorations are not displayed in this mode **menus **sroll bars **status bar at bottom of screen The mode is very useful when using a projector *enlarges displayed object somewhat *does not display extraneous window decorations Essential navigation tools, PgUp, PgDn, mouse clicks continue having their usual effect in Full-Screen mode Two means are often available for entering Prsentation Mode *click on the Presentation Mode icon *or access from the menu -> View -> Presentation Mode *alternatively some Apps use -> Slide Show The generally used method of exiting Full Screen Mode and returning to normal display is to press ESC key. Many recent verions of Apps have Full-Screen Mode, including *LibreOffice *Firefox *PDF readers Full-Screen Mode is at its most effective when the document has been prepared in '''Landscape''' orientation --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:10, 20 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] 1c3f3151397c4bfd4df75dd08f677f6b4c130f7c 1329 1327 2015-01-20T20:56:38Z Rpeters 14 added icons for clarity wikitext text/x-wiki Full Screen Mode is also known as Presentation Mode Full-Screen mode displays only the contents of the document *all other window decorations are not displayed in this mode **menus **tool bars **scroll bars **status bar at bottom of screen The mode is very useful when using a projector *enlarges displayed object somewhat *does not display extraneous window decorations Essential navigation tools, PgUp, PgDn, mouse clicks continue having their usual effect in Full-Screen mode Two means are often available for entering Prsentation Mode *click on the Presentation Mode icon [[Image: view-fullscreen.png]] *or access from the menu -> View -> Presentation Mode [[Image:view-presentation.png]] *alternatively some Apps use -> Slide Show The generally used method of exiting Full Screen Mode and returning to normal display is to press ESC key. Many recent verions of Apps have Full-Screen Mode, including *LibreOffice *Firefox *PDF readers Full-Screen Mode is at its most effective when the document has been prepared in '''Landscape''' orientation --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:10, 20 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] 2593bdc271d5f5e54f8418aa41c9ea18bb9bd271 1331 1329 2015-01-20T21:12:38Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Full Screen Mode is also known as Presentation Mode Full-Screen mode displays only the contents of the document *all other window decorations are not displayed in this mode **menus **tool bars **scroll bars **status bar at bottom of screen The mode is very useful when using a projector *enlarges displayed object somewhat *does not display extraneous window decorations Essential navigation tools, PgUp, PgDn, mouse clicks continue having their usual effect in Full-Screen mode Two means are often available for entering Presentation Mode. *click on the toolbar icon Presentation/Full-screen Mode [[Image:view-presentation.png]] *or access from the menu -> View -> Presentation/Full-screen Mode [[Image: view-fullscreen.png]] *alternatively some Apps use the menu heading -> Slide Show -> Start from first/any Slide Note that either of the icons above may be used, in either context, by a particular App, but have the same effect The generally used method of exiting Full Screen Mode and returning to normal display is to press ESC key. Many recent verions of Apps have Full-Screen Mode, including *LibreOffice *Firefox *PDF readers Full-Screen Mode is at its most effective when the document has been prepared in '''Landscape''' orientation --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:10, 20 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] adc77e5885bc0de31655877819c4abbfa5f74bbc 6 212 1328 2015-01-20T20:54:47Z Rpeters 14 icon occassionally used in apps wikitext text/x-wiki icon occassionally used in apps 56fc02460334f26006c9764abf3c6addf59676b3 6 213 1330 2015-01-20T20:57:53Z Rpeters 14 icon commonly used for full-screen mode wikitext text/x-wiki icon commonly used for full-screen mode 82cfa54e7ed6a706a934a9f188a6ffe187fa8170 0 137 1332 1283 2015-02-02T22:29:38Z Prichter 15 Added PCUG Mailbox Full Scam wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/internet-fraud-and-scams.aspx AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously recognised as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow any links or open the any attachments!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - February 2015 - Subject: Email Storage Alert ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2015. Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the stated mail quota maximum size is wrong * the click "here" link has been disabled below Your mailbox is almost full. Dear xxxxxx@pcug.org.au, 3840MB 4096MB Current size Maximum size Please reduce your mailbox size. Delete any items you don't need from your mailbox and empty your Deleted Items folder. Click here to do reduce size automatically. Thanks, Mail System Administrator ==== SCAM - January 2015 - Subject: WARNING CODE:VX2G99AAJ ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January 2015. Note * the from address is not even PCUG! It's <technicalunit@careceo.com> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * our admin would have already known your user name & address! * the warning code is meaningless Dear Account User, Warning Code: VX2G99AAJ This message is from our email messaging centre. Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit in our Server. You may not be able to send or receive mails in coming days. We request you upgrade your webmail account immediately by providing your account details as stated below. EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________ ACCOUNT USERNAME:______________________ PASSWORD:______________________________ Failure to reply to this email as instructed will render your email account in-active in our database. PCUG.ORG.AU ADMINISTRATOR ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] d92c3aeaeaa7aa4f236b261fb9b80758fdb43823 0 4 1333 1281 2015-02-05T12:34:40Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Changed Contact Details */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 5f4dcfd78599a3f0db5521cad1239bd3144ab306 1334 1333 2015-02-05T12:35:43Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Changed Contact Details */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK ACT 2611'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact the office for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] b3671d1f796403d0c3cb4225a2c9d1be2415b528 1335 1334 2015-02-27T08:24:30Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG on Facebook */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK ACT 2611'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] f2da0b51e4dd9b401db7f00dacfd23800b43852b 1336 1335 2015-02-27T08:26:44Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Website volunteers */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact the [[mailto:office.manager@pcug.org.au PCUG Office]] for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK ACT 2611'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 17/09/2014'' * Session times for the iSig now occur on the 4th Friday of the month, 10am at the PCUG centre. * '''Next session is Friday 26 September, 2014 10am'''. * [''Note CANCELLED session Thur 18 Sept, 2014 will NOT go ahead''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 549eca6d0758366f73265602cf19ba48b54ecf68 1337 1336 2015-02-27T08:35:28Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK ACT 2611'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] a52c005f48cc495b0f3730fbec61a0cd3eabd8d8 1338 1337 2015-02-27T08:36:50Z Gjpotts 16 wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK ACT 2611'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Contact with PCUG (volunteers) is via 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PO Box 67, Red Hill ACT 2603. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends per willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] f59d98b9c1f0d28bbd522b8bd01bc17a3850a188 1339 1338 2015-02-27T08:57:57Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Office Hours */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * The PCUG centre has closed. * '''Please send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK ACT 2611'''. * ['''Please phone: 1800 728 853'''] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 3e88b7e8dce41ffe4f9812c3f2b0f7900b998b21 0 214 1341 2015-03-12T22:24:32Z Rpeters 14 Created page with " == Android == guide needed == iOS & *nix == see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] == Windows == Printing can be done directly to most network printers, ''without'' the need ..." wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == iOS & *nix == see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] == Windows == Printing can be done directly to most network printers, ''without'' the need for a print server #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware -> --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] abadeddb5100aceb71d97fa28e227452e4845fae 1342 1341 2015-03-12T23:02:53Z Rpeters 14 added outline of installing TCP/IP printer wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == iOS & *nix == see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] == Windows == Printing can be done directly to most network printers, ''without'' the need for a print server #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware & Sound -> Device & Printers -> Add a Device #click -> the Printer that I want is not Listed #select Add a Printer using TCP/IP address or hostname #enter IP address of the printer #enter (arbitrary) port name #on next screen select relevant printer driver #after installation completes, right click on printer icon and select "Printing Preferences" -> "Advanced" #*set paper to A4 or A3, as appropriate --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 610d3553df8213e31cf9f31e72c2640d26b38b47 1343 1342 2015-03-12T23:03:32Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == iOS & *nix == see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] == Windows == Printing can be done directly to most network printers, ''without'' the need for a print server #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware & Sound -> Device & Printers -> Add a Printer #click -> the Printer that I want is not Listed #select Add a Printer using TCP/IP address or hostname #enter IP address of the printer #enter (arbitrary) port name #on next screen select relevant printer driver #after installation completes, right click on printer icon and select "Printing Preferences" -> "Advanced" #*set paper to A4 or A3, as appropriate --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a716490e9f959dcc20bb637a5a9cf8fd5a1cdddf 1344 1343 2015-03-12T23:04:39Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == iOS & *nix == see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] == Windows == Printing can be done directly to most network printers, ''without'' the need for a print server #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware & Sound -> Device & Printers -> Add a Printer #click -> the Printer that I want is not Listed #select Add a Printer using TCP/IP address or hostname #on next screen #*enter IP address of the printer #*enter (arbitrary) port name #on next screen select relevant printer driver #after installation completes, right click on printer icon and select "Printing Preferences" -> "Advanced" #*set paper to A4 or A3, as appropriate --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 1b5971cef4e776876ee28bddda6588876e24601f 0 17 1345 415 2015-03-12T23:12:57Z Rpeters 14 redirected Windows users to different page wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Windows 7, 64 bit Windows *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS *simplest alternative for network printing is described at [[Printing via Network]] *although other work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: **routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available **minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.3.x provide the functionality required but have different menus. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7acc539bd012d173d8f7bcf61abbeaa22d7604df 0 18 1346 450 2015-03-12T23:24:51Z Rpeters 14 amended Windows 8 section wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Netbooks that are pre-installed with Linux are still available from specialist retailers. The price, availability and configuration might not be attractive. A plethora of suggestions will be found on the Internet for installing Linux on popular netbooks, that come with Windows XP/7 pre-installed. These procedures are provided as a convenient summary for our members and outline our experience with this process. == Caveats == === No Warranty === These procedures are provided in the hope that they may be useful, but with absolutely no warranty whatsoever Note, in particular, that: *if a computer is to be returned for service under supplier's warranty conditions then it may be necesary to restore the software to that which was pre-installed by the supplier *the market for second-hand netbooks not having Windows pre-installed is very limited It is not feasible, in a brief HOWTO, to cover the idiosyncracies of all models from all manufacturers. *the following procedures are know to be successful with various common models *but might not be successful with some obscure models See ''Prerequites'' below for suggested precautions. === Macbooks === The procedures, described herein, are '''not''' directly applicable to netbooks and other computers that are pre-installed with MacOS, which uses different firmware. Although it is possible to install specially compiled Linux on those devices, advice should be sought in an Apple forum. === Windows 8 Devices === All Windows 8 devices are sold with so-called "Secure Boot" enabled Lesser known Linux, in particular, will fail to boot when Secure Boot is enabled *most reliable solution is to enter "Setup" and set Secure Boot to DISABLED - other changes will then be enforced **the Setup function will thereafter be password protected **Windows 8.n will still boot **the default user must thereafter login to Windows == Prequisites == These prerequisites are recommended for all ''Options'' outlined below, including the '''zero option''' #Boot to Windows and use the inbuilt utility to '''burn''' at least one copy of the recovery DVD\ #*supplier's guideline is that this be done at the '''first''' use of Windows on the netbook #**if done at a later stage, the DVD may not be identical to the original installation #ensure that you have an up-to-date backup, on external media, of any data within the Windows system == Options == === Overwrite Windows === #are you certain ? #so - you have done ''Prequisites'' above #all of the other ''Options'' below are beyond your skill/resources #are you '''still''' certain ? === Replace Hard Disk Drive === Argueably the most reliable way of retaining an unchanged Windows intallation, however: *requires substantial dissassembly of most netbooks, which is relatively difficult === Use USB HDD/SSD === Advantages *relatively quick solution *no change to installed Windows system Disadvantages *cost *toting a portable HDD somewhat defeats the purpose of a netbook *booting can be unreliable **must always use same USB socket **presence of other USB storage devices can prevent booting === Create Free Space on Existing Drive === ==== Gather Tools ==== #Software utiilities will be required to shrink at least one existing partition. A recent release of ''gparted'' is recommended and the most conventient way of obtaing this is on a PartedMagic or SystemrescueCD CD. #Few netbooks have CD/DVD readers. It will be necessary to either: #*borrow or purchase a USB CD/DVD drive or #*make a bootable USB memory device containing the utility software ==== Additional Backups (Optional) ==== #use "dd" to make an image of the unmounted HDD to a file on an external/network drive #use "clonezilla" or similar to clone either: #*entire HDD #*key partitions ==== Preliminaries ==== #Boot the netbook to Windows and then from the Control Panel: #*disable virtual RAM (swapper.exe/dat) #**? is there any such thing under Win 7 #*make a hard-copy note of the total size of the C: drive #*if the netbook has had more than trivial use with Windows, then '''de-fragment''' the entire C: drive #**be aware that this might take''' many''' hours ==== Count Existing Partitions ==== Case - 3 or fewer #Boot the netbook to the USB device containing the utility software #use gparted to shrink the Windows C: drive, to the extent desired #*this will usually be the largest partition, but will not be /dev/sda1 on all netbooks #*invariably NTFS filesystem #*cross-check with the size of the C: drive noted earlier Case - 4 Partitions #try your luck with gparted, as above - ''yes really'' #if after shrinking C: gparted is unable to create extra partition(s) then you will need to delete '''one''' pre-existing partition #*the '''only''' candidate is the "manufacturer's crud" partition, that contains optional utilities, games and other "freeware" === Don't Proceed (Zero Option) === If uncertain of your ability to compete one of the above options, other options include: #don't proceed #seek assistance #purchase separate hardware for a portable Linux system #*netbook having Linux pre-installed #*tablet computer, most of which have Linux/Android pre-installed, although the functionality is somewhat different from a netbook. == Think Outside the Square == === Laptops === A better option with Laptops can be to remove the original HDD/SSD and store it in a safe place. This procedure can readily be done by an end-user in most cases. Then install a replacement storage drive for use with Linux. Alternatively, the above procedures can be implemented === Desktops === Dual-booting Windows and Linux from the same storage device has many limitations including. *Windows continually overwriting LInux bootloader *configuration of bootloader is more complicated *choices for disk partitioning are constrained Better solutions for recent desktop computers are: *in the case of PC having Windows pre-installed, purchase and install a second HDD for exclusive use with Linux '''as well as''' a Linux bootloader **first check that the PC '''can''' boot a second HDD - this is usually selected via key F11/F12 at POST stage *get a generic PC, having no pre-installed software, assembled by a computer shop *purchase a brand-name PC, having no pre-installed software. The best known example is HP Proliant Microservers === Booting from Extra Drives === see [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:59, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] f0391e9970f5c92387b0ee2f01c15c80996c1891 1347 1346 2015-03-12T23:25:56Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == Netbooks that are pre-installed with Linux are still available from specialist retailers. The price, availability and configuration might not be attractive. A plethora of suggestions will be found on the Internet for installing Linux on popular netbooks, that come with Windows XP/7 pre-installed. These procedures are provided as a convenient summary for our members and outline our experience with this process. == Caveats == === No Warranty === These procedures are provided in the hope that they may be useful, but with absolutely no warranty whatsoever Note, in particular, that: *if a computer is to be returned for service under supplier's warranty conditions then it may be necesary to restore the software to that which was pre-installed by the supplier *the market for second-hand netbooks not having Windows pre-installed is very limited It is not feasible, in a brief HOWTO, to cover the idiosyncracies of all models from all manufacturers. *the following procedures are know to be successful with various common models *but might not be successful with some obscure models See ''Prerequites'' below for suggested precautions. === Macbooks === The procedures, described herein, are '''not''' directly applicable to netbooks and other computers that are pre-installed with MacOS, which uses different firmware. Although it is possible to install specially compiled Linux on those devices, advice should be sought in an Apple forum. === Windows 8 Devices === All Windows 8 devices are sold with so-called "Secure Boot" enabled Lesser known Linux, in particular, will fail to boot when Secure Boot is enabled *most reliable solution is to enter "Setup" and set Secure Boot to DISABLED - other changes will then be enforced **the Setup function will thereafter be password protected **Windows 8.n will still boot **the default user must thereafter login to Windows == Prequisites == These prerequisites are recommended for all ''Options'' outlined below, including the '''zero option''' #Boot to Windows and use the inbuilt utility to '''burn''' at least one copy of the recovery DVD\ #*supplier's guideline is that this be done at the '''first''' use of Windows on the netbook #**if done at a later stage, the DVD may not be identical to the original installation #ensure that you have an up-to-date backup, on external media, of any data within the Windows system == Options == === Overwrite Windows === #are you certain ? #so - you have done ''Prequisites'' above #all of the other ''Options'' below are beyond your skill/resources #are you '''still''' certain ? === Replace Hard Disk Drive === Argueably the most reliable way of retaining an unchanged Windows intallation, however: *requires substantial dissassembly of most netbooks, which is relatively difficult === Use USB HDD/SSD === Advantages *relatively quick solution *no change to installed Windows system Disadvantages *cost *toting a portable HDD somewhat defeats the purpose of a netbook *booting can be unreliable **must always use same USB socket **presence of other USB storage devices can prevent booting === Create Free Space on Existing Drive === ==== Gather Tools ==== #Software utiilities will be required to shrink at least one existing partition. A recent release of ''gparted'' is recommended and the most conventient way of obtaing this is on a PartedMagic or SystemrescueCD CD. #Few netbooks have CD/DVD readers. It will be necessary to either: #*borrow or purchase a USB CD/DVD drive or #*make a bootable USB memory device containing the utility software ==== Additional Backups (Optional) ==== #use "dd" to make an image of the unmounted HDD to a file on an external/network drive #use "clonezilla" or similar to clone either: #*entire HDD #*key partitions ==== Preliminaries ==== #Boot the netbook to Windows and then from the Control Panel: #*disable virtual RAM (swapper.exe/dat) #**? is there any such thing under Win 7 #*make a hard-copy note of the total size of the C: drive #*if the netbook has had more than trivial use with Windows, then '''de-fragment''' the entire C: drive #**be aware that this might take''' many''' hours ==== Count Existing Partitions ==== Case - 3 or fewer #Boot the netbook to the USB device containing the utility software #use gparted to shrink the Windows C: drive, to the extent desired #*this will usually be the largest partition, but will not be /dev/sda1 on all netbooks #*invariably NTFS filesystem #*cross-check with the size of the C: drive noted earlier Case - 4 Partitions #try your luck with gparted, as above - ''yes really'' #if after shrinking C: gparted is unable to create extra partition(s) then you will need to delete '''one''' pre-existing partition #*the '''only''' candidate is the "manufacturer's crud" partition, that contains optional utilities, games and other "freeware" === Don't Proceed (Zero Option) === If uncertain of your ability to compete one of the above options, other options include: #don't proceed #seek assistance #purchase separate hardware for a portable Linux system #*netbook having Linux pre-installed #*tablet computer, most of which have Linux/Android pre-installed, although the functionality is somewhat different from a netbook. == Think Outside the Square == === Laptops === A better option with Laptops can be to remove the original HDD/SSD and store it in a safe place. This procedure can readily be done by an end-user in most cases. Then install a replacement storage drive for use with Linux. Alternatively, the above procedures can be implemented === Desktops === Dual-booting Windows and Linux from the same storage device has many limitations including. *Windows continually overwriting LInux bootloader *configuration of bootloader is more complicated *choices for disk partitioning are constrained Better solutions for recent desktop computers are: *in the case of PC having Windows pre-installed, purchase and install a second HDD for exclusive use with Linux '''as well as''' a Linux bootloader **first check that the PC '''can''' boot a second HDD - this is usually selected via key F11/F12 at POST stage *get a generic PC, having no pre-installed software, assembled by a computer shop *purchase a brand-name PC, having no pre-installed software. The best known example is HP Proliant Microservers === Booting from Extra Drives === see [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]13:59, 13 March 2015(EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 1459a9db0ddf5c88779ae089cb15f9f371d66598 0 209 1348 1312 2015-03-12T23:29:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The following link contains tips, suitable for beginners, on trying out and possibly migrating to Linux [https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:How_to_migrate_from_Windows Migration Guide] Much can be evaluated from Windows (or iOS, possibly from Android) --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:20, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 78396a2f9b9d4f0073868273bfe5234443b25b24 0 208 1349 1292 2015-03-19T10:29:56Z Rpeters 14 added recommendation to create images only, of Windows system disks wikitext text/x-wiki Clonezilla is a free program for backing up complete Operating Systems and optionally restoring them to HDD of equal or larger size *recent releases can also restore to a smaller HDD, provided that the used space is smaller than the new HDD. It is not well suited to routine data backup, although users data within the partition(s) will be backed up. Be certain to read the documentation thoroughly before using Clonezilla, particularly if cloning MS Windows system, where the process has many "gotchas" *try to have the online documentation available on another PC **read the section pertaining to the proposed clonzilla routine *the safest procedure with Windows is to create an image of the '''whole disk''' on a USB HDD **the folder containing the image will have adequate metadata to identify hardware to which it belongs **images contain only used blocks of the source drive and can be a fraction of the size of the source HDD **the image folder can be copied or moved to another repository, to provide additional contingency *if required, the image can be restored to the original HDD **it can also be restored to a replacement (typically larger) HDD *do '''not''' install two Windows system disks concurrently in a PC **if the PC were booted, Windows would render both systems inoperable and give "Blue Screen of Death" Clonezilla may be downloaded from http://clonezilla.org Alternatively, a more general purpose utility CD ISO image containing it may be purchased from http://partedmagic.com/ --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:12, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] c4e37ec22aa2aa74697db603697dbea408c1fa75 1350 1349 2015-03-19T11:20:19Z Rpeters 14 split to General Uers, Intermediates and Geeks wikitext text/x-wiki Clonezilla is a free program for backing up complete Operating Systems and optionally restoring them to the same, or replacement, HDD == For General Users == Clonzilla is a technical routine that is <span style="color:#ff1300; background:#ffffff">'''NOT SUITABLE'''</span> for general <span style="color:#0000ff; background:#ffffff">'''Windows '''</span>users, who should obtain and use the utility provided by the manufacturer of their new HDD == For Intermediate Users == It is not well suited to routine data backup, although users data within the partition(s) will be backed up by as part of the process.. Ascertain HDD capacity *Clonezilla assesses number of LBA of original and any replacement HDD **it might refuse to restore to a drive of the same '''nominal''' capacity **Until recently, Clonzilla required a replacement HDD to have equal or larger number of LBA **Recent releases can also restore to a smaller HDD ***same routines used ***need to be certain that the "used space", to which the image will be expanded, does not exceed the size of the new HDD (plus some operating margin) Be certain to read the documentation thoroughly before using Clonezilla, particularly if cloning any HDD containing MS Windows system, where the process has many "gotchas" *try to have the online documentation available on another PC **read the section pertaining to the proposed clonzilla routine *the safest procedure with Windows is to create an '''image''' of the '''whole disk''' on a USB HDD **the folder containing the image will have adequate metadata to identify hardware to which it belongs **images contain only used blocks of the source drive and can be a fraction of the size of the source HDD **the image folder can be copied or moved to another repository, to provide additional contingency *if required, the image can be restored to the original HDD **it can also be restored to a replacement (typically larger) HDD *do '''not''' install two Windows system disks concurrently in a PC **if the PC were booted, Windows would render both systems inoperable and give <span style="color:#ffcc00; background:#0000ff">'''"Blue Screen of Death"'''</span> *there is a case for creating a clonezilla image of any new Windows computer <span style="color:#ff1300; background:#ffffff">'''BEFORE'''</span> its first boot to Windows **the latter would require entry of permanent settings such as "first user name" and "computer name" Clonezilla may be downloaded from http://clonezilla.org Alternatively, a more general purpose utility CD ISO image containing it may be purchased from http://partedmagic.com/ == Strictly for Geeks == Partitions rather than whole HDD can be imaged or cloned. *bootloader routines might not be adequately cloned via this routine Recent releases of Clonezilla can create a Virtual Machine disk image from a natively installed Operating System --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:12, 19 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] d05d00710e62bc590821c291b632045a2ac7d104 0 16 1351 1270 2015-03-19T11:41:41Z Rpeters 14 /* Writing Bootable USB/SD */ - added caution re SD cards wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Caution re SD Cards ==== According to Wikipedia, SD cards contain areas that should '''NOT''' be reformatted. The SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for safe re-formatting of SD cards The routines commonly used to produce '''bootable''' SD cards (mostly for Linux but also DOS systems for Firmware upgrades) might overwrite these areas. Experience has shown that: *bootable SD media perform the intended task well (although speed would depend on class of card) *SD cards that are to then be used for second or subsequent bootable images require special pre-treatment - See "Strictly for Geeks" below SD cards that are later reverted from use as bootable media to use for general storage might perform poorly in the latter application ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 08cd200f2b6b0ca4bce720f5d7071cc922c5ede5 1352 1351 2015-03-19T12:00:31Z Rpeters 14 /* Strictly for Geeks */ added extra preliminaries for SD cards wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Caution re SD Cards ==== According to Wikipedia, SD cards contain areas that should '''NOT''' be reformatted. The SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for safe re-formatting of SD cards The routines commonly used to produce '''bootable''' SD cards (mostly for Linux but also DOS systems for Firmware upgrades) might overwrite these areas. Experience has shown that: *bootable SD media perform the intended task well (although speed would depend on class of card) *SD cards that are to then be used for second or subsequent bootable images require special pre-treatment - See "Strictly for Geeks" below SD cards that are later reverted from use as bootable media to use for general storage might perform poorly in the latter application ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x)\ #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 933567ce79b4e52df76bbb815103406560d394e2 1353 1352 2015-03-19T12:01:34Z Rpeters 14 /* Strictly for Geeks */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be made into '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Caution re SD Cards ==== According to Wikipedia, SD cards contain areas that should '''NOT''' be reformatted. The SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for safe re-formatting of SD cards The routines commonly used to produce '''bootable''' SD cards (mostly for Linux but also DOS systems for Firmware upgrades) might overwrite these areas. Experience has shown that: *bootable SD media perform the intended task well (although speed would depend on class of card) *SD cards that are to then be used for second or subsequent bootable images require special pre-treatment - See "Strictly for Geeks" below SD cards that are later reverted from use as bootable media to use for general storage might perform poorly in the latter application ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x) #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7217ae22ebd264a57dc8f3cd97b09a1e52f9dc42 0 174 1354 1296 2015-03-31T02:35:10Z Rpeters 14 /* 64-bit CPU */ updated Parted Magic, which is no longer issued as separate 64 & 32 bit ISO wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit it is only ~ 400 MB download and a 64-bit boot can be selected. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. **a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a 32-bit Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display an error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:19, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2ca208eb8bbded87daa786f16b4d6b9363d4f382 1355 1354 2015-03-31T02:46:40Z Rpeters 14 /* Test for CPU Model */ added section re Resources wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit it is only ~ 400 MB download and a 64-bit boot can be selected. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. **a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a 32-bit Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display an error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider === Resource Requirements === In the absence of any guidelines from the distributor ==== CPU ==== *any 64-bit CPUI **slower, single core models will perform more slowly *32-bit CPU slower than 1 GHz are generally suited only to specialised "older PC" Desktop oriented distributions ==== RAM ==== Varies substantially with the style of Distribution *2 GB RAM is adequate for any 64-bit Desktop distribution *1.2 GB RAM adequate for 32-bit CPU **assumes installation from DVD/USB stick Installation media **more RAM is required to install from a booted Live distribution --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:19, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 1d743e587d661de77b3db74296de8ea858b0e5c1 0 88 1356 1266 2015-03-31T02:52:13Z Rpeters 14 /* Arch Linux */ added notes re GUI wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #*an Ubuntu download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 445fa283a63f3024b2c98601654d41bf933b9722 0 92 1357 1306 2015-03-31T02:59:05Z Rpeters 14 /* Cons */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">'''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 1d24abb98e78d31d2106407962c8f79b25a6e8be 0 157 1358 1311 2015-03-31T03:56:49Z Rpeters 14 /* Secure Boot */ updated sitrep re secure boot wikitext text/x-wiki The new technologies being introduced with PC & disk drives manufactured in 2011 and later include the core technology of UEFI firmware and its related technologies: *AF disk drives *GPT disk partitioning *EFI boot routine *Secure Boot (within the UEFI firmware) More detailed guidelines, help and recommendations are available from: http://rodsbooks.com Many mainboards that were manufactured by Intel from 2006 include (U)EFI, but are likely to require upgrading to the latest available firmware release, in order to work reliably with the first three technologies above. Intel provide an ISO image of a bootable CD, which allows the upgrade to be done without Windows. == EFI Boot == The EFI bootloader within UEFI is capable of booting a kernel image directly, provided that the image has an extension of .efi. Getting this working, directly, requires being able to add to the boot entries in the mainboard's setup and this feature is not implemented on all mainboards. After entering the mainboard's setup, folllow the trail: Boot tab -> Boot Priority -> Add entry Workarounds include: #many current Linux installer routines will place an entry for a bootloader (eg grub.efi, although it is likely to be named after the distro) in the mainboard's boot priority list #the rEFInd boot manager from the above site will place an entry for itself in the mainboard's list. #*rEFInd is more flexible, being able to select various boot devices: #** a bootloader such as grub.efi #** a CD or USB boot device or #** a kernel file having .efi extension #*rEFInd also presents an attractive boot menu, having icon-interface EFI boot looks for FAT32 partitions having type code ef00 (type ESP). Contemporary kernel + initrd occupy > 20 MB. An ESP of several hundred MB is advisable if many OS will be installed on the PC or if older kernels are being retained. == Secure Boot == The situation in early 2015 is: *most "mainstream" Linux can be installed and booted with secure boot enabled *less popular distribution might work only if secure boot has been set to DISABLED **UEFI settings routine might require that a password be set for UEFI before disabling secure boot **if such password were forgotten then it might not be possible to later change settings. The UEFI specification does provide for Secure Boot to be able to be disabled *AMI provide this feature in their UEFI (although hardware makers might not implement it) *Award/Phoenix ? Linux users are advised not to purchase a new computer (desktop or laptop) without first confirming that it will boot Linux (eg from CD Live CD or installed to USB stick) Secure boot '''can''' be disabled on the following models: === Acer Notebooks === #Completely shut down your computer #power up/reboot and press F2 #Use the right arrow key to select Security #Use the down arrow key to highlight Set Supervisor Password and press Enter. #Create a password and press Enter. Retype the password to confirm and press Enter again. #Use the right arrow key to select Boot. #Press the down arrow key to select Secure Boot and press Enter. #With the arrow key, highlight Disabled and press Enter. #Press the F10 key and select Yes to save the changes and exit the BIOS. === Samsung Notebooks === #Restart the computer and press 'F2' key 4-5 times to access ‘BIOS Setup’. #Press 'F9' key to initialize the 'BIOS' settings. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. #Restart the computer and immediately begin pressing 'F2' key 4-5 times to access ‘BIOS Setup’. #Go to 'Boot' menu. #Set the 'Secure Boot' option to [Disabled], and set the 'OS Mode Selection' menu to [CSM OS]. #Set the ‘Fast BIOS Mode’ in the ’Advanced’ menu to [Disabled]. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. #Select the 'Boot Device Priority' in the 'Boot' menu then press 'F5' or 'F6' key to move the DVD to top position. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. http://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers/samsung/15-notebook-sku-90670/ [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]14:03, 18 Freruary 2014 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 1ed7ecf0718737bf3f48d244815034ec64f93be9 0 152 1359 1309 2015-03-31T04:11:39Z Rpeters 14 added note re KFramework 5 wikitext text/x-wiki KDE 4 is a substantial re-work of KDE. An overview is provided with most Distributions and at: http://www.kde.org An aspect causing much difficulty is migrating data to the new Personal Information Manager - Kontact #essential to '''copy''' each users PIM data #*for earlier releases of KDE 4 see KMail manual, FAQ # 6.11 #**using the commands cp - a or rsync -av #contemporary releases have a special command line tool, ''pimsettingexporter'', which starts a GUI window from which all relevant settings AND data can be exported/reimported Those migrating from KDE 3 to KDE 4 need to pick a "quiet time" because many other apps have been replaced or substantially changed As of early 2015, KFramework 5, the successor to KDE4 is being implemented concurrently with KDE4 --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:02, 18 January 2015 (AEDT) [[Category: Technical Info]] d5f51028536ea00808a1e506c7de990b1cb7c0c4 0 215 1361 2015-03-31T04:17:20Z Rpeters 14 migrated 64 v 32 bit discussion wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] 5ae9e2c3182b3e1ad179ecd2e287f9a4b6655910 1362 1361 2015-03-31T04:18:42Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] 14592e61722be667f33a5e2007aa5f4c4b5c012b 0 216 1364 2015-03-31T04:20:06Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "* [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]]" wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] 3c06750956331853ae2d2e9a8da176d0ff0c9e94 0 215 1366 1362 2015-03-31T04:21:13Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] 454bd78e390e8306e1c0d15004ddf6905b1c346c 1375 1366 2015-03-31T04:28:59Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] 0efebf50375ad0e221e07ddaae25119a39115dff 1378 1375 2015-03-31T04:31:38Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] 6704ac015ea7ed7f449e7ca1df403d972c7bb9ab 1379 1378 2015-03-31T04:32:36Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] 74a9e63fe147810b599d645b9a4b2eb04eb91571 0 7 1367 1365 2015-03-31T04:24:10Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Installation]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 91dd1f9f74480c585ba0f58cbfb3e01c60d98681 1369 1367 2015-03-31T04:26:01Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Installation]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] f74e39266b87589f7fa97ffe5a46f54844f6fc23 1371 1369 2015-03-31T04:26:43Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Installation]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] ae9cfc9f6b68b2c507b6c34a8b6384857ed109fa 1373 1371 2015-03-31T04:28:01Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Installation]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 322938cf06a735e54fb93bdd1d0398bcbd72e6a8 1376 1373 2015-03-31T04:30:25Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Installation]] * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a4aa8c2fcf6003530de8326cbb793dd18611a2aa 1382 1376 2015-03-31T04:56:00Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 996181d570d45a674b98df9518eef9bd2b643176 1391 1382 2015-06-26T02:43:06Z Prichter 15 Removed TIP ISP refference wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Programmable Controllers ==== *[[Arduino]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e92113dd51ea4ec4cc21a9166277439d78ab2b5e 1399 1391 2015-07-21T05:48:28Z Prichter 15 Deleted entry for non existent section wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 3865680964a84a9e871a000063b0c3a614fb2f5c 1409 1399 2015-08-16T01:43:53Z Rpeters 14 /* Sub-Compact Computers */ added page for Serial_Console wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] be35cfbed7333a73e9cd7411398c1d3ecacbd0cd 0 217 1368 2015-03-31T04:24:24Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "*[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]]" wikitext text/x-wiki *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] 2bfc5b415dddc588fefbf9be10b193fcdc890c07 1374 1368 2015-03-31T04:28:20Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] 8eb168f72780de0697a0cf2517f7e9aa816d6644 1404 1374 2015-08-07T23:14:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Network]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] 4cdea9a5d1ff4659bf71ed88d33b4e9bb32a56df 0 218 1370 2015-03-31T04:26:22Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "* [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]]" wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] 7b3595ebcbed040cca6982142cf70328cb7d7e05 0 216 1372 1364 2015-03-31T04:27:08Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] a02a180b124dd394ffefff9e6cee0d799fd0b2b6 1377 1372 2015-03-31T04:30:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] 20110b6b6dcbc804435d27ddd6968a9f393c438e 1380 1377 2015-03-31T04:41:21Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [["Live" CD]] *[[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] 9c8b7a00c85383f152509be88df175515293f0a0 0 219 1381 2015-03-31T04:53:25Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "Most Linux can be run from a "Live" CD/DVD/USB media, without installing '''anything''' on the computer's hard drive *desirable for evaluation of Linux on computers having Win..." wikitext text/x-wiki Most Linux can be run from a "Live" CD/DVD/USB media, without installing '''anything''' on the computer's hard drive *desirable for evaluation of Linux on computers having Windows installed, where inexpert installation could overwrite Windows *enables unknown Linux to be evaluated for functionality & ease of use *'''NB''' any software will take relatively long to load and be relatively slow to run in this mode Live CD/DVD/USB can be created via most operating systems, using files that are mostly free to download from the Internet. See: [[Using dotISO Files]] 799ff8fc83a9121c49a0bc1569b5e3b617537305 0 220 1383 2015-03-31T05:08:48Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "The general appearance and functionality of the desktop in Linux is known as the '''Desktop Environment''' Several choices are available: LXDE and XFCE are suited where: *o..." wikitext text/x-wiki The general appearance and functionality of the desktop in Linux is known as the '''Desktop Environment''' Several choices are available: LXDE and XFCE are suited where: *only a few apps are required *older or lower resource hardware will be used GNOME and its derivatives, CINNAMON and MATE *provide most apps likely to be required *require moderate hardware resources KDE is the most functional desktop *with trade-off of greater resource requirements, particularly RAM All Desktop Environments provide for multiple instances of the desktop to be loaded simultaneously *facilitates rapid switching between running apps *but requires much additional RAM Those upgrading from an older Linux running KDE3 should follow: * [[KDE 4 Desktop Environment]] 4609ce5cd5ed3c496642798817086a4e81bb37c5 0 207 1384 1293 2015-03-31T05:13:52Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki A common question asked by those new (and not so new) to Linux is what Firewall/anti-virus/anti-spyware is needed. #a Firewall is essential with any networked computer #*most Linux install and enable an SPI firewall by default #**if "lsmod" includes "IPTables" in its listing then a firewall is enabled #*an SPI firewall in a router is also advisable #**NB - many routers default this to "DISABLED" - be certain to enable it. #*having both firewalls enabled simultaneously is unlikely to cause problems #anti-virus is completely unnecessary with Linux #*don't be ripped-off for it #*ClamAV is a free anti-virus scanner app for Linux #**scans foreign storage media and email attachments for Windows viruses #anti-spyware in Linux relies on an informed user --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:57, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 184acf2c692359b960bc3f78e20706bdead41ced 2 95 1385 1143 2015-04-01T02:22:04Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2a49f1f2bffbdeae8bf0b821a4997d3f0d908cb5 1386 1385 2015-04-01T05:10:31Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 1986b795d0bc7afe08a382a9c79748f5192658c2 1387 1386 2015-04-05T04:33:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] f56a4968e3552c1f8473247affd1b22428721388 0 88 1388 1356 2015-04-05T06:02:30Z Rpeters 14 separated selection into functionality & support wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of hree differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a :LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention ==== Bandwidth ==== for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet (& subsidiaries) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 0d07875083c5f877016390e6de7bb77c05f88c38 1408 1388 2015-08-08T02:47:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXDE #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention ==== Bandwidth ==== for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet (& subsidiaries) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 3262a1ba24a93faab764b6b1fdf8cd8b00f65e30 0 221 1389 2015-04-16T23:57:29Z Prichter 15 Created page with "'''The information you have linked to is currently under revision.'''" wikitext text/x-wiki '''The information you have linked to is currently under revision.''' 1db85cda2027c7a6f01f0380cbf00418dd99b153 0 4 1390 1339 2015-06-25T01:34:21Z Prichter 15 Updated to reinforce that only PCUG office has closed wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 24/12/2014''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG is currently in negotiations with U3A, about a combined training facility in Cook. * It is planned to relocate the Dell machines, with Windows7, from Holder to Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 7a353c60d1a660a9c961237acc96b2bc5d492428 1396 1390 2015-06-30T05:34:07Z Gjpotts 16 /* Training Room for Hire */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 30/06/2015''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG has agreed with U3A, to use U3A's training facility in Cook. * The Dell machines, with Windows7, are now located at Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is alot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] fdf20ea74ba35f458bd36cc41ea021fc6dacff24 1397 1396 2015-06-30T05:37:35Z Gjpotts 16 /* Call For Volunteers */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 30/06/2015''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG has agreed with U3A, to use U3A's training facility in Cook. * The Dell machines, with Windows7, are now located at Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2014 == ''Item Date: 24/2/2014''<br/> * The 2014 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact Karen Adams at the PCUG Office (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Secretary [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is a lot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] b89c7e0090ba0a8ae48c8c35558e638edf2aec44 0 197 1392 1150 2015-06-26T02:52:26Z Prichter 15 /* "Cable" */ wikitext text/x-wiki === "Cable" === Subscribers to TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL1 service have '''two''' Cat 5 network cables run to their premises *one services plain old telephone (POTS) only **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *the second services Internet '''and''' ''optional'' "WebTV" Users need to be careful not to plug equipment into the incorrect socket as this has reportedly caused equipment failures. Note that TransACT have now completed their upgrade of areas originally serviced by VDSL1 to VDSL2. However it is important to note that (as of early 2015) upgrading of premises to the new standard is not automatic and must be requested. A consideration of whether to upgrade is the likely loss of back-to-base alarm capabilities. Changes with VDSL2 include much higher data rate capabilities and the discontinued use of one of the two pairs of wires run into your premises. Phone services will then become piggy-backed onto the same pair as used by the data only wiring, in much the same way as ADSL uses the same household wiring for phone & data services. TransACT might agree to "underground" these cables, at customer expense. === ADSL === TransACT installers wire a fixed "splitter" at customers premises (usually withing the ceiling space) *phone socket usually remains at original location **plug in existing telephone handsets **can also be used with FAX *socket for Internet service is wired at location of customer's preference (if practical) **choose location suitable for WiFi coverage, if appliable **also choose location from which wired LAN cables ''could'' be run in "star" topology === NBN === Would conform with NBN practice. See previous section see http://www.transact.com.au for further information --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:36, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 4f16a430c166402c58af33c0f972de7bd5daa0ff 0 5 1393 1093 2015-06-26T03:32:02Z Prichter 15 /* Opportunities for Participation */ Removed link to training & media rooms wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Definition of a Volunteer]] * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * The [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG CALENDAR] gives an agenda of events about volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) * Specifics of [[Training Courses | TRAINING COURSES]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) * Specifics of [[Special Interest Groups - SIGS |SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS]] (information to follow) * Information of AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS is grouped with [[Newsletters | NEWSLETTERS]] == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG LAN & Centre Equipment]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] == [[Action Items Assistance Required]] == This is a page where requests for assistance to direct PCUG matters may be placed in the spirit of "Users Helping Users".<br/r> Please go directly to the page to find PCUG tasks needing help. == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] e5aaaed1cd313ac5a7f16872cc8b4e733988e28a 1395 1393 2015-06-26T03:36:27Z Prichter 15 /* Opportunities for Participation */ Removed link to centre LAN wikitext text/x-wiki This page provides information '''PCUG Activities and Opportunities for Participation'''.<br/> All PCUG activities are supported by Volunteer time, skill, willingness and enthusiasm.<br/> Please browse through some of the varied activities listed below for information about the activities themselves, and descriptions of the volunteer roles that support those activities. <br/> == About Volunteering == This area is overviews information relevant to Volunteering, such as .... * [[Definition of a Volunteer]] * [[Code of Ethics]] * [[Work, Health and Safety Info & Legislation]] == Current Activities == * The [http://www.pcug.org.au/calendar/ PCUG CALENDAR] gives an agenda of events about volunteer related activities of PCUG (including, but not limited those listed below) * Specifics of [[Training Courses | TRAINING COURSES]] such as Wiki Editing, Absolute Beginners Training (ABC) * Specifics of [[Special Interest Groups - SIGS |SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS]] (information to follow) * Information of AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS is grouped with [[Newsletters | NEWSLETTERS]] == Opportunities for Participation == This section provides a general description of varied volunteer opportunities available to PCUG members.<br/> Anyone who has had experience in any role is invited to place a description of that role.<br/> Anyone who would like to try a role is welcome to contact us for more information.<br/> * [[PCUG Committee and Sub-Committees]] * [[Help & Assistance]] * [[PCUG Office and Centre Administration]] * [[Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and Meetings]] * [[The Internet Project (TIP) Administration]] == [[Action Items Assistance Required]] == This is a page where requests for assistance to direct PCUG matters may be placed in the spirit of "Users Helping Users".<br/r> Please go directly to the page to find PCUG tasks needing help. == Registering Your Skills == *Until more formal information is placed here, please contact the PCUG Office Manager with any queries relating to Volunteering. ---- Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Activities and Opportunities]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. == Related Pages == [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 45769e8c2127630f0934e014980fbd28be0176ca 0 49 1394 522 2015-06-26T03:35:01Z Prichter 15 Replaced content with "Opportunities are available for: * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:..." wikitext text/x-wiki Opportunities are available for: * Training & Media Bookings Coordinator * Trainer * Training Assistant --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]08:17, 25 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Volunteering]] 3b4513e44faba3c9c448ab2ea8233e915d62237b 0 178 1398 1147 2015-07-21T05:43:09Z Prichter 15 /* Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? */ wikitext text/x-wiki == What is Windows 8? == Windows 8.1 is the latest version of Microsoft Windows. It comes after Windows 7 (which came after Windows Vista, which came after Windows XP). Windows 8.1 brings a big change in the appearance of the operating system. It now has two main screens, a new one (which Microsoft at first called Metro, but now calls Modern) and a more familiar desktop screen. It starts up in the new 'Modern' screen. == What is Windows RT? == Windows RT is a version of Windows 8 that runs on ARM processors (which are common in mobile devices including Microsoft's Surface RT tablet). It presents the Modern interface and only runs programs downloaded from the new Microsoft App Store, in addition to a suite of pre-installed programs which includes Internet Explorer and Microsoft Office 2013 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote). == Do I need to move on from my present version of Windows? == If you can do everything you want to do with your present setup, there's no need to upgrade to Windows 8.1. If however you are still using Windows XP, you should look to upgrade as soon as possible due to [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Windows_XP_End_of_Life Microsoft having stopped issuing security updates for Windows XP]. == If I want to upgrade from my current version of Windows to Windows 8, how can I find out if my computer can cope with Windows 8? == Microsoft will test your computer for you. Go to the Microsoft [http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8"Upgrade to Windows 8] page and click on the "Download Upgrade Assistant" link and follow the instructions. The Assistant checks your hardware for compatibility with Windows 8.1. You can install and run the Assistant without having to download the full operating system if you do not want to. == Do I need a touch-screen computer or tablet to use Windows 8? == The new Modern interface is designed for use with a touch-screen but it can also be controlled with a mouse and keyboard. You do not have to have a touch-screen to use Windows 8. == How do I buy Windows 8? == If your computer passes the test and can cope with Windows 8, you can buy Windows 8 as an upgrade to your present operating system (which may be anything from Windows XP Service Pack 3, through to Windows 7). If your operating system is older than Windows XP, it's very likely that your computer will not pass the test for Windows 8 compatibility, and you will need to purchase a new computer if you want to use Windows 8. == Should I download the upgrade or buy it on a DVD? == The download costs less, but if you choose it, you will receive the version of Windows 8 that matches your older operating system. If your old OS is the 32-bit version, you will receive the 32-bit version of Windows 8. Provided that your computer hardware can cope with the 64-bit version of Windows 8 (the test result will tell you) you can make better use of your computer's resources by upgrading to the 64-bit version even if your current OS is 32-bit. But to do that you will need to purchase the DVD. Members who have very slow internet connections such as dial-up, or who have limited internet data allowances, will also need to purchase the DVD. (The size of the Windows 8 download is about 3 gigabytes.) == Should I upgrade or do a clean reinstall of Windows? == The easiest way to upgrade is to download Windows 8 and install it as an upgrade over your old OS. If you do that, the installer will do its best to keep your old settings, program installations etc. (If you are upgrading from Windows XP, only your data will be preserved; if from Vista, your settings and data will be preserved; but in both those cases you will need to reinstall your programs.) A clean install of your new Windows 8 involves a fresh start: it requires you to reinstall all your programs, and to fetch your data files from your backup, and redo your settings. You would have to do this anyway if you purchased a new computer. A clean install minimizes any risk that old information on your hard disk could confuse Windows 8 even after installation. Whichever you choose, It's very important to have a full backup before you install Windows 8. == Will Windows 8 allow me to use all my old programs? == If you accept the download and you have Windows Vista or Windows 7, all your old programs will run under Windows 8. Also, if you move from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, your 32-bit programs will still run (as they will under Vista or Windows 7 64-bit). If you are moving from Windows XP, and are still using some old DOS-style 16-bit programs, these will not run under Windows 8 without the help of an additional program to provide the 16-bit environment these programs need. == With Windows 8 installed on my computer, how can I learn to use the new features? == When you install Windows 8 and start it up you will be given some introductory information on your screen. Windows 8 also has a built-in help system, with advice on using the new interface, which you can access by pressing the Windows key and the F1 key together. == I have purchased a new computer with Windows 8 already installed. How do I find the desktop? == On the Modern interface clicking on the bottom left pane opens the desktop. To return to the Modern screen from the old-style Windows desktop, just press the Windows key on your keyboard. '''Text courtesy of the Melbourne PC User Group''' == An addition from Canberra about Windows 8 protection inclusion == Windows 8 comes with Windows Defender built in. Defender incorporates Early Launch Antimalware (ELAM) protection, Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Secure Boot, Bootkit Detection and anti-virus protection. Defender will disable itself if you install another antivirus suite. This is to stop multiple (often conflicting) AVs/AMWs getting underfoot. To find the management window, tap the Windows key and type Defender on the screen. Updates are vigorous (almost daily). [[Category:Technical Info]] f0fe46519504f2b9af6e8a3c0f6824d68508060c 0 137 1400 1332 2015-07-21T05:52:27Z Prichter 15 /* More Information */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/online-fraud-and-scams AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously recognised as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow any links or open the any attachments!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - February 2015 - Subject: Email Storage Alert ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2015. Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the stated mail quota maximum size is wrong * the click "here" link has been disabled below Your mailbox is almost full. Dear xxxxxx@pcug.org.au, 3840MB 4096MB Current size Maximum size Please reduce your mailbox size. Delete any items you don't need from your mailbox and empty your Deleted Items folder. Click here to do reduce size automatically. Thanks, Mail System Administrator ==== SCAM - January 2015 - Subject: WARNING CODE:VX2G99AAJ ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January 2015. Note * the from address is not even PCUG! It's <technicalunit@careceo.com> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * our admin would have already known your user name & address! * the warning code is meaningless Dear Account User, Warning Code: VX2G99AAJ This message is from our email messaging centre. Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit in our Server. You may not be able to send or receive mails in coming days. We request you upgrade your webmail account immediately by providing your account details as stated below. EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________ ACCOUNT USERNAME:______________________ PASSWORD:______________________________ Failure to reply to this email as instructed will render your email account in-active in our database. PCUG.ORG.AU ADMINISTRATOR ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] de26bbb65e17183ff5138502c952b1ae54358b3f 1401 1400 2015-07-21T05:54:08Z Prichter 15 increase in social media scams wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also increasingly via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/online-fraud-and-scams AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.woolworths.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/website/woolworths/about+us/woolworths-news/scamalert Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously recognised as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow any links or open the any attachments!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - February 2015 - Subject: Email Storage Alert ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2015. Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the stated mail quota maximum size is wrong * the click "here" link has been disabled below Your mailbox is almost full. Dear xxxxxx@pcug.org.au, 3840MB 4096MB Current size Maximum size Please reduce your mailbox size. Delete any items you don't need from your mailbox and empty your Deleted Items folder. Click here to do reduce size automatically. Thanks, Mail System Administrator ==== SCAM - January 2015 - Subject: WARNING CODE:VX2G99AAJ ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January 2015. Note * the from address is not even PCUG! It's <technicalunit@careceo.com> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * our admin would have already known your user name & address! * the warning code is meaningless Dear Account User, Warning Code: VX2G99AAJ This message is from our email messaging centre. Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit in our Server. You may not be able to send or receive mails in coming days. We request you upgrade your webmail account immediately by providing your account details as stated below. EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________ ACCOUNT USERNAME:______________________ PASSWORD:______________________________ Failure to reply to this email as instructed will render your email account in-active in our database. PCUG.ORG.AU ADMINISTRATOR ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 908eb7985379c2067c65a7cef2d66795c93a3de7 1403 1401 2015-07-27T04:09:02Z Prichter 15 /* Scam Warnings */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also increasingly via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/online-fraud-and-scams AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://www.bunnings.com.au/gift-card-scam-warning Bunnings Gift Card Scam - July 2015] * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams - May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.scamnet.wa.gov.au/scamnet/Types_Of_Scams-Email_Scams-Woolworths_50_survey_.htm Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously recognised as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow any links or open the any attachments!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - February 2015 - Subject: Email Storage Alert ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2015. Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the stated mail quota maximum size is wrong * the click "here" link has been disabled below Your mailbox is almost full. Dear xxxxxx@pcug.org.au, 3840MB 4096MB Current size Maximum size Please reduce your mailbox size. Delete any items you don't need from your mailbox and empty your Deleted Items folder. Click here to do reduce size automatically. Thanks, Mail System Administrator ==== SCAM - January 2015 - Subject: WARNING CODE:VX2G99AAJ ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January 2015. Note * the from address is not even PCUG! It's <technicalunit@careceo.com> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * our admin would have already known your user name & address! * the warning code is meaningless Dear Account User, Warning Code: VX2G99AAJ This message is from our email messaging centre. Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit in our Server. You may not be able to send or receive mails in coming days. We request you upgrade your webmail account immediately by providing your account details as stated below. EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________ ACCOUNT USERNAME:______________________ PASSWORD:______________________________ Failure to reply to this email as instructed will render your email account in-active in our database. PCUG.ORG.AU ADMINISTRATOR ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 694797cebf9d694ee0ff2b0d6d2ec185ff16cab3 0 96 1402 1130 2015-07-21T06:07:02Z Prichter 15 wikitext text/x-wiki == Internet & Office Use == Our Training PC, having the following resources, are quite responsive when running Win7 Pro and using browser, email or office software *3 Gig, single-core CPU *2 GB dual-channel DDR RAM *160 GB SATA hard disk drive *64 MB graphics "card" Any new desktop or laptop PC is likely to have better resources than the above Netbooks, sold with Win7 Starter, typically have the following resources *1.6 Gig, single-core CPU *1 GB dual-channel DDR RAM *160 GB SATA hard disk drive == Graphics & Gaming == It suggested that anyone looking to run recent release PC games be mindful that they will often require much better than minimum system specifications. For Windows 7 & 8.1 users, it is suggested to run the 64 bit version of the operating system and have at least 8 Meg of RAM available. Be aware that the 32 bit version can only utilise up to 3.5 Meg of RAM, which some newer games will not work with reliably, and which may lead to regular system crashes during game play. However be mindful that the 64 bit version will require new drivers for all connected hardware devices and therefore may prove a problem with older peripherals. In addition to a well performing PC, it is likely you will need a relatively recent & powerful graphics card with at least 1GB of video RAM. Higher screen resolutions and larger monitors will typically require faster video cards with even more video memory. Most laptops are often poor performers with PC games as they typically have lower performance built-in video cards which may also share system memory. [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]15:59, 30 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] 566a55cd93288562c010bae3c1dddae430a318c3 0 222 1405 2015-08-07T23:18:03Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "*[[Wireless Broadband]]" wikitext text/x-wiki *[[Wireless Broadband]] 50469898c4b540da9dc15618ef02a9986da13215 0 223 1406 2015-08-08T00:05:49Z Rpeters 14 created page, with specific guidelines for Telstra 4G dongles wikitext text/x-wiki == IPFire == IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. === Controlling the Dongle === This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] abc1769ce384e7d67e2b1525b09d60e241c673ec 0 181 1407 1228 2015-08-08T02:40:55Z Rpeters 14 removed offer by the late Paul B to edit page wikitext text/x-wiki <span style="color:red"><b>This article is based on limited experience with one device, and will need additional information to cover a wider range. Please add what you know</b></span> ==='''Connecting an Android device to a computer'''=== It's a connected world, and setting your devices to communicate with each other can make their use even easier, more useful and more fun. It can make the job of moving files – music, photos etc - more intuitive and positive. The first task is to connect your computer to your Android device to allow you to move files between them. You can do this wirelessly if you have a wireless router, or physically using the cable you use for recharging your device (most devices have a USB-type cable that plugs into a host device or a power point). ===''Wirelessly''=== [[File:andd_1.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 1]] Wireless provides a range of features. For example, you can use the connection to send SMS messages from the keyboard of your computer (much easier than the small keyboards!). But most usefully, you can control your phone from a distance - which, if you lose it, might just be a life saver. There are numerous packages to choose from, but AirDroid is the pick of them at the time of writing. Do a Google search for AirDroid on your device and install it. Connection is via your browser. The phone install will give you a URL - something like 10.0.0.9:8888 (the URL will depend on your router), and away you go. That's it! ===''Physically''=== [[File:andd2.jpg|right|thumb|Fig. 2]]As mentioned above, most devices have a cable that serves a dual role – recharging, or connecting to a computer. If you connect the two, Mac and Linux machines will know about this added device automatically. Windows users will probably have to install a device driver in the same way that you would for any other device. The way you do this will depend on the host device, but the process has been largely automated now, needing no special action on your part. Windows 8 may not find your driver. Experience shows that HTC drivers are available and do work for many Android devices. There is a useful thread at http://forum.xda-developers.com Bear in mind that you will probably have to reset your computer and then connect your device for this to work after the driver has been installed. When you have done that, go to Settings/More... and turn on the Tethering/Hotspot feature. When you have done with tethering, reverse the process and turn it off. ===''Digging Deeper''=== You have been asked to demonstrate your new device to a room full of new owners, and would like to illustrate actual screenshots to complement your talk. Not all devices have an HDMI port, so you need an alternative. Some techniques require *Android app and/or *WiFi connection between PC & Android device The following technique requires neither of the above, but does require a USB connection between the devices *works with Android in Portrait or Landscape mode, with latter usually better **Landscape usually increases font and **makes more use of Projector screen **allows scaling of screen image above & below 100% ***use with caution, to avoid fuzzy display on PC monitor/projector *tested with: **Bauhn 10.1 inch dual-core tablet ==== Linux ==== #check that Java is installed #*if not use software manager to install #install the '''adb''' component of Android SDK #*if not available as component then install full SDK #**large download #install other packages required #*nil - for openSUSE #*udisks2 & kio-mtp for Archlinux running KDE #download the droid@screen java applet from http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ #save it in a user executable location #power up Android device #navigate to '''Settings''' #change '''Developer''' settings as detailed at http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/installation/ #connect Android device to PC via USB cable #*most Linux should automatically detect the Android device #execute #* $ java -jar <path-to>droidAtscreen #a pop up window should request location of '''adb''' #*browse to /usr/bin/adb (in openSUSE & Archlinux) #*select #a GUI screen should pop up #*Android device should be listed in device table #*select it #screen display of Android device should appear in a separate window on PC #*an empty screen might indicate: #**a missing mtp package #**USB devices not set to load automatically '''Refinements''' *add java applet to desktop menu *add path to '''adb''' to environment variable ANDROID_HOME ==== Windows ==== Before you even contemplate installing this, you can only make this work if you have Java (at least v6) installed. There is a long-winded or, alternately, a relatively modest way of proceeding. The long-winded way is to get the entire Android Software Development Kit (SDK)– fine if you plan to write apps, but at 660MB, a bit extreme. The modest way is only (!) 93MB so go to http://developer.android.com/sdk/index.html. [[File:andd3.jpg|left|thumb|Fig. 3]]If you are using Windows, scroll down a bit and find “Use an existing IDE” and then click the button “Download the SDK Tools for Windows. If you are not using Windows, there are download options for Mac and Linux. Download just the SDK tools, you won’t need the ADT ones. That’s the typical result on a Windows screen when you download and unpack the zip file. Now you can click on that, and sit back for a few moments while the installer gets busy. Make a note of the directory it is installed in. All you need to check at this point is that the platform tools are installed. If not, make sure they are (tick the box and follow the on-screen prompts) [[File:andd4.jpg|450px|center|Fig. 4]] The next step is to set up an environment variable to point to the SDK directory (you did make a note of it?) If not, take a look at the image above, and you will see it there. In Windows, press the Microsoft/Windows key together with the Pause/Break key to get to the Properties screen (or right-click your Computer desktop icon and select Properties). At the left, click on ‘Advanced system settings’ select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables button. Click on New, type ANDROID_HOME in the Variable box, and enter the path which will probably be something like c:\program files\android\android-sdk in the Value box. Say OK to all that. '''''I'm unsure what you would need to do in Linux/Mac Does anyone know?''''' Now, over to your Android device. Find Settings, and then Developer options.[[File:andd5.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 5]] Tap that, and then find and tap USB debugging to turn it on.[[File:andd6.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 6]] Connect your Android device to your computer with a USB cable. This will change a few items on your device, and you need to respond. In Settings, find the USB connection pointer and activate it.[[File:andd7.jpg|center|thumb|Fig. 7]] Now back to your computer. Go to http://droid-at-screen.ribomation.com/download/ and download Droid@Screen. This will be a .jar file – simply copy it to your desktop. Double click on the .jar file, wherever you put it. If Droid@Screen cannot find the ADB executable you created, it will prompt you for the path. Just navigate to the installation directory of the Android SDK and then into platform-tools. You should find the adb.exe file there. That's the setup finished. You could create a desktop icon for the .jar file, so that you could connect your device then click the icon to get a screen view open. [[Category:Technical Info]] 0b963f354c24b2d3e8fff5b4c616ff98754734f2 0 224 1410 2015-08-16T02:27:40Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation == Banana Pi == *requires serial console for initi..." wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation == Banana Pi == *requires serial console for initial installation * == Cubieboard == == Raspberry Pi == e904b3dc218684761a8cf8288a77a90a07e15060 1411 1410 2015-08-16T02:31:02Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation *NB many use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface == Banana Pi == *requires serial console for initial installation *Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 == Cubieboard == *requires serial console for initial installation == Raspberry Pi == *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite of HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional 12328e7e247153faaa3db14c75fcbe3376d06443 1412 1411 2015-08-16T02:35:12Z Rpeters 14 added outline of parameters to connect serial cable wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation *NB many use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface == Banana Pi == *requires serial console for initial installation *Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 === minicom === *default parameters do not match Banana Pi. The following settings might need to be configured **baud rate 115200 **software flow control Yes **LF Yes **CR Yes *might be necessary to press "Enter" to get minicom to change from "Offline" to "Online" mode === Putty === TBA - might require no reconfiguration == Cubieboard == *requires serial console for initial installation == Raspberry Pi == *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite of HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional adffed8e0947f571ec7658a28aa662af881689a1 1413 1412 2015-08-16T02:36:24Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation *NB many use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface == Banana Pi == *requires serial console for initial installation *Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 === minicom === *default parameters do not match Banana Pi. The following settings might need to be configured **baud rate 115200 **software flow control Yes **LF Yes **CR Yes *might be necessary to press "Enter" to get minicom to change from "Offline" to "Online" mode === Putty === TBA - might require no reconfiguration == Cubieboard == *requires serial console for initial installation == Raspberry Pi == *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite of HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:36, 16 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 947cf838f1b79a2d2fd0102f6409851b07186fb9 1414 1413 2015-08-16T02:36:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation *NB many use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface == Banana Pi == *requires serial console for initial installation *Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 === minicom === *default parameters do not match Banana Pi. The following settings might need to be configured **baud rate 115200 **software flow control Yes **LF Yes **CR Yes *might be necessary to press "Enter" to get minicom to change from "Offline" to "Online" mode === Putty === TBA - might require no reconfiguration == Cubieboard == *requires serial console for initial installation == Raspberry Pi == *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite of HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:36, 16 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 5a724e638c7a79966e62ff0de22aeb7c99c76bc8 1415 1414 2015-08-16T02:38:54Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation == 12 Volts == *NB many small devices use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface == Banana Pi == *requires serial console for initial installation *Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 === minicom === *default parameters do not match Banana Pi. The following settings might need to be configured **baud rate 115200 **software flow control Yes **LF Yes **CR Yes *might be necessary to press "Enter" to get minicom to change from "Offline" to "Online" mode === Putty === TBA - might require no reconfiguration == Cubieboard == *requires serial console for initial installation == Raspberry Pi == *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite of HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:36, 16 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 1696e2b30c767215b9a3bd73d8c61a854b2ae70b 0 174 1416 1355 2015-10-23T22:35:01Z Rpeters 14 altered recommendations for low RAM computers wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware *many distributions no longer provide 32-bit versions Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. The exception is for computers having < 2 GB RAM. There a 32-bit distribution should be selected, whether or not the CPU supports 64-bit. PC down to 1.2 GB, perhaps 1 GB should run 32-bit desktop oriented distributions adequately. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit it is only ~ 400 MB download and a 64-bit boot can be selected. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. **a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a 32-bit Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display an error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider === Resource Requirements === In the absence of any guidelines from the distributor ==== CPU ==== *any 64-bit CPUI **slower, single core models will perform more slowly *32-bit CPU slower than 1 GHz are generally suited only to specialised "older PC" Desktop oriented distributions ==== RAM ==== Varies substantially with the style of Distribution *2 GB RAM is adequate for any 64-bit Desktop distribution *1.2 GB RAM adequate for 32-bit Desktop distribution *512 MB RAM may be adequate for specialised server/NAS/router distributions **all above assumes installation from DVD/USB stick Installation media **more RAM is required to install from a booted Live distribution ==== Disk Space ==== *HDD smaller than 80 GB SATA are likely to be too slow for acceptable performance --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:19, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] c0c98f29d3c0820fed2c6b929824d39c777b7131 0 137 1417 1403 2015-12-31T04:04:32Z Gjpotts 16 /* Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also increasingly via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/online-fraud-and-scams AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://www.bunnings.com.au/gift-card-scam-warning Bunnings Gift Card Scam - July 2015] * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams - May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.scamnet.wa.gov.au/scamnet/Types_Of_Scams-Email_Scams-Woolworths_50_survey_.htm Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously recognised as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow any links or open the any attachments!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - December 2015 - Subject: User Verification ==== The following scam is being sent to members circaDecember 2015:- "Dear Pcug.org User, This is to inform you that pcug.org. Security Center is shutting down some accounts due to congestion. This notification has been sent regardless of your last login date and you are required to access your account by clicking the link below to confirm usage and enjoy uninterrupted services. Notification Date: December 30th, 2015 To update your services; click http://<non-pcug-url-removed>/ OR copy and paste the link on your web browser to update your account. The Account Update Team at Pcug.org! Thank you for being on the network and apologize for any inconvenience caused. ABOUT THIS MESSAGE: This service message was delivered to you as pcug.org! Customer to provide you with account updates and information about your account benefits." Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the stated mail quota maximum size is wrong * the click "here" link has been disabled below ==== SCAM - February 2015 - Subject: Email Storage Alert ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2015. Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the stated mail quota maximum size is wrong * the click "here" link has been disabled below Your mailbox is almost full. Dear xxxxxx@pcug.org.au, 3840MB 4096MB Current size Maximum size Please reduce your mailbox size. Delete any items you don't need from your mailbox and empty your Deleted Items folder. Click here to do reduce size automatically. Thanks, Mail System Administrator ==== SCAM - January 2015 - Subject: WARNING CODE:VX2G99AAJ ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January 2015. Note * the from address is not even PCUG! It's <technicalunit@careceo.com> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * our admin would have already known your user name & address! * the warning code is meaningless Dear Account User, Warning Code: VX2G99AAJ This message is from our email messaging centre. Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit in our Server. You may not be able to send or receive mails in coming days. We request you upgrade your webmail account immediately by providing your account details as stated below. EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________ ACCOUNT USERNAME:______________________ PASSWORD:______________________________ Failure to reply to this email as instructed will render your email account in-active in our database. PCUG.ORG.AU ADMINISTRATOR ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] f8a948ae1cf765201c8cc2398429ed4cc0514fe2 1418 1417 2015-12-31T04:07:38Z Gjpotts 16 /* SCAM - December 2015 - Subject: User Verification */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also increasingly via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/online-fraud-and-scams AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [http://www.bunnings.com.au/gift-card-scam-warning Bunnings Gift Card Scam - July 2015] * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams - May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.scamnet.wa.gov.au/scamnet/Types_Of_Scams-Email_Scams-Woolworths_50_survey_.htm Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously recognised as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow any links or open the any attachments!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - December 2015 - Subject: User Verification ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa December 2015:- "Dear Pcug.org User, This is to inform you that pcug.org. Security Center is shutting down some accounts due to congestion. This notification has been sent regardless of your last login date and you are required to access your account by clicking the link below to confirm usage and enjoy uninterrupted services. Notification Date: December 30th, 2015 To update your services; click http://<non-pcug-url-removed>/ OR copy and paste the link on your web browser to update your account. The Account Update Team at Pcug.org! Thank you for being on the network and apologize for any inconvenience caused. ABOUT THIS MESSAGE: This service message was delivered to you as pcug.org! Customer to provide you with account updates and information about your account benefits." Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the click "here" link contained has now been disabled ==== SCAM - February 2015 - Subject: Email Storage Alert ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2015. Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the stated mail quota maximum size is wrong * the click "here" link has been disabled below Your mailbox is almost full. Dear xxxxxx@pcug.org.au, 3840MB 4096MB Current size Maximum size Please reduce your mailbox size. Delete any items you don't need from your mailbox and empty your Deleted Items folder. Click here to do reduce size automatically. Thanks, Mail System Administrator ==== SCAM - January 2015 - Subject: WARNING CODE:VX2G99AAJ ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January 2015. Note * the from address is not even PCUG! It's <technicalunit@careceo.com> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * our admin would have already known your user name & address! * the warning code is meaningless Dear Account User, Warning Code: VX2G99AAJ This message is from our email messaging centre. Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit in our Server. You may not be able to send or receive mails in coming days. We request you upgrade your webmail account immediately by providing your account details as stated below. EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________ ACCOUNT USERNAME:______________________ PASSWORD:______________________________ Failure to reply to this email as instructed will render your email account in-active in our database. PCUG.ORG.AU ADMINISTRATOR ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 16b407e6bb8ab1f4bcee7d4fd69ebdb6e5e41e5a 2 95 1419 1387 2016-01-13T03:16:26Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements * === Getting Techhnical === --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 69f697f7b07955c87d2eec02faaafba23d4bdbaf 1420 1419 2016-01-13T03:27:50Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following (exact terminology will vary): === Getting Techhnical === At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements * --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7e801c105e18b3d2c9b5a9f861847633c59b49b9 1421 1420 2016-01-24T07:42:08Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following (exact terminology will vary): === Getting Techhnical === At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 3d9d12b26ab5dfa5c51a4d833cc5087e05ec8058 1422 1421 2016-01-24T07:47:41Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): === Getting Techhnical === At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 9299649e706614bea57d2e28cd3ae73bac66ce58 1423 1422 2016-01-24T20:59:48Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24 Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browse enable #systemctl cups-browse start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 795490be388a2d53bf92ee8a30d357553d49bdc4 1424 1423 2016-01-24T21:07:03Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24 Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable #systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable #systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] af53c915f196f8ec856b605b4bb6a2314cd5fd34 1425 1424 2016-01-24T21:12:12Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24 Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki>#systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki>#systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6c843b3b0522c69390213953271f92af42b5ba50 1426 1425 2016-01-24T21:13:32Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Techhnical */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24 Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] fdeec8eb50795ff591b84b0e7e91af06ac65d572 1427 1426 2016-01-24T22:03:23Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ As CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 85d06dac566a77ad9d89c14c2326e2158f8cdb94 1428 1427 2016-01-24T22:43:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. == Applicability == === Windows OS === CUPS is not available for any version of Windows. *for networks where all machines are running Windows, network printers can be set up from within Control Panel *for networks running a NAS, the NAS should be able to be configured to provide network printing to Windows machines *for networks running a Linux server, SAMBA should be able to be configured on the server, to provide network printing to Windows machines === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ As CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 12dc49a058dbaa551f6c3bce3e24afcaf3767038 1429 1428 2016-01-25T01:57:13Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. == Applicability == === Windows OS === CUPS is not available for any version of Windows. *for networks where all machines are running Windows, network printers can be set up from within Control Panel *for networks running a NAS, the NAS should be able to be configured to provide network printing to Windows machines *for networks running a Linux server, SAMBA should be able to be configured on the server, to provide network printing to Windows machines === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ As CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" At the client end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 796679ba7f51c5ff548a1f52a1e30e1c1cebc53f 1430 1429 2016-01-25T23:51:14Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. *supports a wide range of printers dating back to at least early 1990's *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC. == Applicability == === Windows OS === CUPS is not available for any version of Windows. *for networks where all machines are running Windows, network printers can be set up from within Control Panel *for networks running a NAS, the NAS should be able to be configured to provide network printing to Windows machines *for networks running a Linux server, SAMBA should be able to be configured on the server, to provide network printing to Windows machines === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to:present capacity https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ As CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 234f536ce3d8cd15f2a724e82783d721d9adbfbe 1432 1430 2016-01-26T00:04:04Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. *supports a wide range of printers dating back to at least early 1990's *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC. == Applicability == === Windows OS === CUPS is not available for any version of Windows. *for networks where all machines are running Windows, network printers can be set up from within Control Panel *for networks running a NAS, the NAS should be able to be configured to provide network printing to Windows machines *for networks running a Linux server, SAMBA should be able to be configured on the server, to provide network printing to Windows machines === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to:present capacity https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ As CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Windows 7, 64 bit Windows *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS *simplest alternative for network printing is described at [[Printing via Network]] *although other work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: **routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available **minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 48555a67d6305f07cbc519bcbebe4824c015f138 1433 1432 2016-01-26T00:49:25Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Key advantages compared with other printing sub-systems include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to at least early 1990's **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC **simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **permits printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS *simplest alternative for network printing is described at [[Printing via Network]] *although other work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: **routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available **minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. *supports a wide range of printers dating back to at least early 1990's *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC. == Applicability == === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Windows OS === CUPS is not available for any version of Windows. *for networks where all machines are running Windows, network printers can be set up from within Control Panel *for networks running a NAS, the NAS should be able to be configured to provide network printing to Windows machines *for networks running a Linux server, SAMBA should be able to be configured on the server, to provide network printing to Windows machines http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Printing_via_Network === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to:present capacity https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ As CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 83725ce36c248db29e5bd54c5cb42ae7baaae37e 1434 1433 2016-01-26T02:01:27Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Key advantages compared with other printing sub-systems include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to at least early 1990's **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC **simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **permits printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS *simplest alternative for network printing is described at [[Printing via Network]] *although other work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: **routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available **minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. *supports a wide range of printers dating back to at least early 1990's *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC. == Applicability == === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS is not available for any version of '''Windows''' **Windows 8 & later should "discover" network printers **failing that and for earlier versions, the following procedure is relatively simple ***http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Printing_via_Network *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between mixed networks Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Windows OS === . *for networks where all machines are running Windows, network printers can be set up from within Control Panel *for networks running a NAS, the NAS should be able to be configured to provide network printing to Windows machines *for networks running a Linux server, SAMBA should be able to be configured on the server, to provide network printing to Windows machines === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to:present capacity https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ As CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 91def2d2d0ed38e04c5f0b0511e05cb0a14fd98d 1435 1434 2016-01-26T02:30:45Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Key advantages compared with other printing sub-systems include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to at least early 1990's **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC **simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **might permit printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. == Applicability == === Windows OS === === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS *simplest alternative for network printing is described at [[Printing via Network]] *although other work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: **routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available **minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. *CUPS is not available for any version of '''Windows''' **Windows 8 & later should "discover" network printers **failing that and for earlier versions, the following procedure is relatively simple ***http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Printing_via_Network *for networks where all machines are running Windows, network printers can be set up from within Control Panel *for networks running a NAS, the NAS should be able to be configured to provide network printing to Windows machines *for networks running a Linux server, SAMBA should be able to be configured on the server, to provide network printing to Windows machines === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to:present capacity https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a70ce47a12c9440cb34047b4bca32508249b5347 1436 1435 2016-01-26T21:32:08Z Rpeters 14 PE wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' Linux & Mac OSX *Sharing printers between these environments should generally work, because both use same CUPS printing sub-system. CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, for which the key advantages include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to before 1990 **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC **simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **might permit printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS admin is accessed via the URL https://localhost:631 - which does not require active Internet connection alternatively an applet "Print Settings" may be used - if not installed, obtain from package "system-config-printer" *to share a printer via a server or another L/OSX machine see sharing CUPS *alternatively, to print to a printer directly attached to the wired or wireless network, set it up via Control Panel or CUPS admin **consider setting up one PC & printer this way as a contingency for failure of the print server. *to print via Samba to a printer attached to a Windows machine – use the Samba option via Ctl Panel or CUPS admin **this option requires printer driver available for and installed on PC/laptop Windows 8 and later should automatically discover any network printers. If not, then manual configuration is possible via '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. == Applicability == === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to:present capacity https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary 2 Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e26b21dc74e4b0b83c7b1393d8dd25213ed37710 1437 1436 2016-01-26T21:40:44Z Rpeters 14 PE wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' Linux & Mac OSX *Sharing printers between these environments should generally work, because both use same CUPS printing sub-system. CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, for which the key advantages include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to before 1990 **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC **simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **might permit printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS admin is accessed via the URL https://localhost:631 - which does not require active Internet connection alternatively an applet "Print Settings" may be used - if not installed, obtain from package "system-config-printer" *to share a printer via a Linux/OSX server or another Linux/OSX machine see sharing CUPS *to use a printer via a NAS, see the documentation for the NAS, which varies widely *alternatively, to print to a printer directly attached to the wired or wireless network, set it up via Control Panel or CUPS admin **consider setting up one PC & printer this way as a contingency for failure of the print server/NAS. *to print via Samba to a printer attached to a Windows machine – use the Samba option via Ctl Panel or CUPS admin **this option requires printer driver available for and installed on PC/laptop Windows 8 and later should automatically discover any network printers. If not, then manual configuration is possible via '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. == Applicability == === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to:present capacity https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary 2 Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 094035663c36dc23bfbd65b473d102eda712c772 1438 1437 2016-01-26T21:46:16Z Rpeters 14 PE wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' Linux & Mac OSX *Sharing printers between these environments should generally work, because both use same CUPS printing sub-system. CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, for which the key advantages include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to before 1990 **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC **simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **might permit printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS admin is accessed via the URL https://localhost:631 - which does not require active Internet connection alternatively an applet "Print Settings" may be used - if not installed, obtain from package "system-config-printer" *to share a printer via a Linux/OSX server or another Linux/OSX machine see sharing CUPS *to use a printer via a NAS, see the documentation for the NAS, which varies widely *alternatively, to print to a printer directly attached to the wired or wireless network, set it up via Control Panel or CUPS admin **consider setting up one PC & printer this way as a contingency for failure of the print server/NAS. *to print via Samba to a printer attached to a Windows machine – use the Samba option via Ctl Panel or CUPS admin **this option requires CUPS printer driver available for and installed on PC/laptop Windows 8 and later should automatically discover any network printers. If not, then manual configuration is possible via '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. == Applicability == === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to:present capacity https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary 2 Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 090d5eb930b41d3c3ddf90a3ee3a0f6c5c5ced49 1443 1438 2016-01-26T22:25:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ====*check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary 2 Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 03f5915deef53977bd4fa94e86f33dc31b1cf4ee 1444 1443 2016-01-26T22:37:02Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ====*check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === The crucial "settings" file used by CUPS for printers is a plain-text dotPPD. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary 2 Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e0f5a5c24aa69f11febaf56b9d6c1a200e774b9d 1445 1444 2016-01-27T01:42:18Z Rpeters 14 /* Strictly for Geeks */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin the release number should be displayed in the title bar [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ ==== CUPS 1.6 et seq ====*check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === The crucial "settings" file used by CUPS for printers is a plain-text dotPPD. In the case of printers having a Postscript or PDF page description language, it is technically feasible to create a dotPPD which provides at least basic functionality for such printer. A good starting point is the file: /usr/share/cups/model/Postscript-level2.ppd.gz Simply changing the "printable area" definition for common page sizes in the above file to suit the specific printer can provide a working result, which could enable unsupported printers (whether old or new) to be utilised. Printable area tends to be well defined in the user manual for a printer. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary 2 Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 08141775d3f46a775acef857b82fb04b837cb98d 1449 1445 2016-01-27T02:31:03Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === The crucial "settings" file used by CUPS for printers is a plain-text dotPPD. In the case of printers having a Postscript or PDF page description language, it is technically feasible to create a dotPPD which provides at least basic functionality for such printer. A good starting point is the file: /usr/share/cups/model/Postscript-level2.ppd.gz Simply changing the "printable area" definition for common page sizes in the above file to suit the specific printer can provide a working result, which could enable unsupported printers (whether old or new) to be utilised. Printable area tends to be well defined in the user manual for a printer. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] fb4d614e4392e18fa78911ca74d7f2f1807ed624 1450 1449 2016-01-27T02:35:50Z Rpeters 14 /* Strictly for Geeks */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Several settings need to be changed to print via network: *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others end: From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6648dea741addb7a3cd90ab80ddcb5dee28c532d 1451 1450 2016-01-27T02:51:47Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, #use Control Panel to check firewall settings *firewall on server must have port 631 open Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing from local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines **it might be possible to allow/disallow for particular printers #browse to the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Use Control panel to modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) at '''both''' machines *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 40081cd3ea3a9f162755bfef96b622e94bb6328c 1452 1451 2016-01-27T03:00:29Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network *allow printing from local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines **it might be possible to allow/disallow for particular printers #browse to the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] f155ba622f10ba503f82df830d1dc168afc3bf5d 1453 1452 2016-01-27T03:03:56Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar === CUPS Versioning Issues === *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e24b7ff4d5561b3f8ec53951735a1b8a6a1f1339 1454 1453 2016-01-27T03:08:34Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === ==== Definitions ==== Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 5f48133f378f2dd9ac3b15109be8db7d40d867bf 1455 1454 2016-01-27T03:09:58Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS Versioning Issues */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === ==== Definitions ==== Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] b9255f4ba6661c2001cf45583e0b517138c58756 1456 1455 2016-01-27T03:13:12Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS <= 1.5.4 */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === ==== Definitions ==== Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4861c8dd270b389de1c153b33907ec8db93adc48 1457 1456 2016-01-27T03:28:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === ==== Definitions ==== Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6b899d633168cc85fe89810063f48e57fee6629b 1458 1457 2016-01-27T03:33:05Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === ==== Definitions ==== Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client ==== CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq ==== Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. ==== CUPS 1.6 and later ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ==== CUPS <= 1.5.4 ==== With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] c2f25859a069fba734949416f65d9498ed58e5df 1459 1458 2016-01-27T03:34:43Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === ==== Definitions ==== Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 60d6c2c707e5d3e0321415eaa4f3584f323b9fbd 1460 1459 2016-01-27T03:37:55Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === For General Users === ==== Definitions ==== Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . ==== Prerequisites ==== This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines === Getting Techhnical === The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki>2 == Situation == ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 070d50212d0a369e9016cb07773ffab391dc54ed 1461 1460 2016-01-27T03:41:29Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = == For General Users == First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **will report same to the computer or laptop **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2bb0c4f748f1f6bc2a3dc05d58f6cb9345e5a3c4 0 17 1431 1345 2016-01-26T00:01:11Z Rpeters 14 /* Situation */removed reference to versions < 1.4 and referred to menu differences with ver 1.6 and later wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Windows 7, 64 bit Windows *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS *simplest alternative for network printing is described at [[Printing via Network]] *although other work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: **routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available **minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[Category:Technical Info]] c86ca47a6dcdf78f0840ed0919ec8dfa8526d32d 1462 1431 2016-01-27T03:46:38Z Rpeters 14 added "getting technical" sect, oriented to CUPS 1.6 et seq wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, that has inbuilt support for network printing. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes One feature of CUPS which can frequently be useful is its ability to print to a network/shared printer when the computer from which the print job is created has no relevant printer drivers installed. Three examples: *a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location *an OS for which a suitable printer driver can't be obtained eg Windows 7, 64 bit Windows *a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS is now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Consequently, it is widely deployed on many devices, such as Smartphones, Tablets, Media Centres & Macintoshes, as well as emerging "pocket computers" and might/could be on other Net/Notebooks, Laptops amd Desktop computers. === Limitations with Windows OS === Windows does not have CUPS *simplest alternative for network printing is described at [[Printing via Network]] *although other work-arounds are available, these are the province of intermediate/advanced users and probably only worth pursuing in the following mid/long term scenarios: **routine printing from a Windows version for which a particular printer "driver" is not available **minimising maintenance of a mixed OS LAN An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. ==== Windows 7 ==== This section requires input from an experienced Windows 7 user *CUPS, per se, is not apparently available **the underlying protocol IPP is available, (but not necessarily installled) for editions other than "Starter" **it prints via the Internet, which may not meet a user's security requirements ==== Windows XP ==== *requires 3rd party software, which wont be installed by default *installing CUPS on Windows XP is complicated *when installed, it can work only with Postscript capable printers (this excludes most ink-jets and many low cost laser printers) **this limitation may also apply to Windows 7 === Mac OS === Apple's implementation of CUPS includes some proprietary extensions. That is unlikely to effect Mac to Mac printing but may introduce limitations in printing between Mac OS and other Unix like OS. == Situation == This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a012c5fc60253580c9c66e4ebd11f15baf072f9c 1463 1462 2016-01-27T03:51:00Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. === Prerequisites === ==== Definitions ==== *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a370be1560800377d82621c1af948e2b2f3e5a67 1465 1463 2016-01-27T04:01:55Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. ==== Definitions ==== Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files *check in the Home tab of CUPS for version number [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6410dff866de810ad8139263dd4c2c56226d0100 0 214 1439 1344 2016-01-26T21:50:32Z Rpeters 14 /* Windows */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == iOS & *nix == see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] == Windows == Windows 8 and later should automatically discover any network printers. If not, then printing can be done directly to most printers that are attached to a wired or WiFi network , ''without'' the need for a print server, after the following manual configuration: #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware & Sound -> Device & Printers -> Add a Printer #click -> the Printer that I want is not Listed #select Add a Printer using TCP/IP address or hostname #on next screen #*enter IP address of the printer #*enter (arbitrary) port name #on next screen select relevant printer driver #after installation completes, right click on printer icon and select "Printing Preferences" -> "Advanced" #*set paper to A4 or A3, as appropriate --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 52cb24d8c7e3a5e583df5f69effac6e20b4a1229 1440 1439 2016-01-26T21:52:55Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == Linux & Mac OSX == Sharing printers between these environments should generally work, because both use same CUPS printing sub-system. CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, for which the key advantages include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to before 1990 **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, does not require '''any''' printer driver on the desktop/laptop PC **simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **might permit printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS admin is accessed via the URL https://localhost:631 - which does not require active Internet connection alternatively an applet "Print Settings" may be used - if not installed, obtain from package "system-config-printer" *to share a printer via a Linux/OSX server or another Linux/OSX machine see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] *to use a printer via a NAS, see the documentation for the NAS, which varies widely *alternatively, to print to a printer directly attached to the wired or wireless network, set it up via Control Panel or CUPS admin **consider setting up one PC & printer this way as a contingency for failure of the print server/NAS. *to print via Samba to a printer attached to a Windows machine – use the Samba option via Ctl Panel or CUPS admin **this option requires CUPS printer driver available for and installed on PC/laptop == Windows == Windows 8 and later should automatically discover any network printers. If not, then printing can be done directly to most printers that are attached to a wired or WiFi network , ''without'' the need for a print server, after the following manual configuration: #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware & Sound -> Device & Printers -> Add a Printer #click -> the Printer that I want is not Listed #select Add a Printer using TCP/IP address or hostname #on next screen #*enter IP address of the printer #*enter (arbitrary) port name #on next screen select relevant printer driver #after installation completes, right click on printer icon and select "Printing Preferences" -> "Advanced" #*set paper to A4 or A3, as appropriate --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] d77aa7381d8601d03cf3773e5be92d1a2207afc9 1441 1440 2016-01-26T21:59:44Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == Linux & Mac OSX == Sharing printers between these environments should generally work, because both use same CUPS printing sub-system. CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, for which the key advantages include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to before 1990 **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, printers are automatically discovered **does not require '''any''' printer driver or configuration on the desktop/laptop PC **substantially simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **might permit printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS admin is accessed via the URL https://localhost:631 - which does not require active Internet connection. Alternatively, an applet "Print Settings" may be used - if not installed, obtain from package "system-config-printer" *to share a printer via a Linux/OSX server or another Linux/OSX machine see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] *to use a printer via a NAS, see the documentation for the NAS, which varies widely *alternatively, to print to a printer that is directly attached to the wired or wireless network, set it up via Control Panel or CUPS admin on the PC/laptop **consider setting up one PC & printer this way as a contingency for failure of the print server/NAS. *to print via Samba to a printer attached to a Windows machine – use the Samba option via Ctl Panel or CUPS admin on the PC/laptop **this option requires CUPS printer driver available for and installed on PC/laptop == Windows == Windows 8 and later should automatically discover any network printers. If not, then printing can be done directly to most printers that are attached to a wired or WiFi network , ''without'' the need for a print server, after the following manual configuration: #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware & Sound -> Device & Printers -> Add a Printer #click -> the Printer that I want is not Listed #select Add a Printer using TCP/IP address or hostname #on next screen #*enter IP address of the printer #*enter (arbitrary) port name #on next screen select relevant printer driver #after installation completes, right click on printer icon and select "Printing Preferences" -> "Advanced" #*set paper to A4 or A3, as appropriate --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 9ee7de72d66429ee052d0af1fad1ec714eb0e000 1442 1441 2016-01-26T22:08:58Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == Linux & Mac OSX == Sharing printers between these environments should generally work, because both use same CUPS printing sub-system. CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, for which the key advantages include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to before 1990 **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, printers are automatically discovered **does not require '''any''' printer driver or configuration on the desktop/laptop PC **substantially simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **might permit printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS admin is accessed via the URL https://localhost:631 - which does not require active Internet connection. Alternatively, an applet "Print Settings" may be used - if not installed, obtain from package "system-config-printer" *to share a printer via a Linux/OSX server or another Linux/OSX machine see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] *to use a printer via a NAS, see the documentation for the NAS, which varies widely *alternatively, to print to a printer that is directly attached to the wired or wireless network, set it up via Control Panel or CUPS admin on the PC/laptop **consider setting up one PC & printer this way as a contingency for failure of the print server/NAS. *to print via Samba to a printer attached to a Windows machine – use the Samba option via Ctl Panel or CUPS admin on the PC/laptop **this option requires CUPS printer driver available for and installed on PC/laptop == Windows == Windows 8 and later should automatically discover any network printers. If not, then printing can be done directly to most printers that are attached to a wired or WiFi network , '''''without''''' the need for a print server, after the following manual configuration: #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware & Sound -> Device & Printers -> Add a Printer #click -> the Printer that I want is not Listed #select Add a Printer using TCP/IP address or hostname #on next screen #*enter IP address of the printer #*enter (arbitrary) port name #on next screen select relevant printer driver #after installation completes, right click on printer icon and select "Printing Preferences" -> "Advanced" #*set paper to A4 or A3, as appropriate --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2fee46d33fd256a643b728484bb7b47a49ef35c0 1464 1442 2016-01-27T03:57:18Z Rpeters 14 added sect low cost alternatives wikitext text/x-wiki == Android == guide needed == Linux & Mac OSX == Sharing printers between these environments should generally work, because both use same CUPS printing sub-system. CUPS is a newer printing sub-system, for which the key advantages include: *supports a wide range of printers dating back to before 1990 **regardless of Operating System version *when printing via network, printers are automatically discovered **does not require '''any''' printer driver or configuration on the desktop/laptop PC **substantially simplifies printing configuration for networked PC **facilitates printing from a laptop/netbook/tablet computer being used away from its home location **might permit printing from a computer where the administrator password (which may be required to install drivers) is unknown. CUPS admin is accessed via the URL https://localhost:631 - which does not require active Internet connection. Alternatively, an applet "Print Settings" may be used - if not installed, obtain from package "system-config-printer" *to share a printer via a Linux/OSX server or another Linux/OSX machine see [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] *to use a printer via a NAS, see the documentation for the NAS, which varies widely *alternatively, to print to a printer that is directly attached to the wired or wireless network, set it up via Control Panel or CUPS admin on the PC/laptop **consider setting up one PC & printer this way as a contingency for failure of the print server/NAS. *to print via Samba to a printer attached to a Windows machine – use the Samba option via Ctl Panel or CUPS admin on the PC/laptop **this option requires CUPS printer driver available for and installed on PC/laptop == Windows == === Windows 8 === Windows 8 and later should automatically discover any network printers. If not, then printing can be done directly to most printers that are attached to a wired or WiFi network , '''''without''''' the need for a print server, after the following manual configuration: === Manual Configuration === #install relevant printer driver on PC #*drivers from the manufacturer's CD or web-site often provide better functionality than inbuilt Windows drivers #go to Control Panel -> Hardware & Sound -> Device & Printers -> Add a Printer #click -> the Printer that I want is not Listed #select Add a Printer using TCP/IP address or hostname #on next screen #*enter IP address of the printer #*enter (arbitrary) port name #on next screen select relevant printer driver #after installation completes, right click on printer icon and select "Printing Preferences" -> "Advanced" #*set paper to A4 or A3, as appropriate === Printer Attached to non-Windows Computer === http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Printing_from_Windows_to_Linux == Low Cost Alternatives == A lower tech solution for small LAN, having Windows as well as other OS, is long "USB" cables *the limit of length to 5 metres for USB cables can be overcome by using a pair of USB-Ethernet/RJ45 converters, which enable a USB printer to be accessed from up to 100 metres over Cat 5 cabling. **sets of these converters are available from specialisist computer hardware suppliers **might variously be described as "printer extenders" "USB extenders" etc *although this is '''not''' network printing, it can suffice. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 09:24, 13 March 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 997565249f39b3cfc1d1d38ac826ad0d4f6b5cec 0 7 1446 1409 2016-01-27T01:58:13Z Rpeters 14 /* Printers */added item for "printer driver not available" wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. 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Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] ff729554866f70464f37865b96cf576982c0a3e9 0 225 1447 2016-01-27T02:10:57Z Rpeters 14 included minimal info at technical & geek levels wikitext text/x-wiki In the case of CUPS printing sub-system, as used by OS other than Windows, it is sometimes feasible to get a printer working satisfactorily without a specific driver being available === Getting Techhnical === The crucial "settings" file used by CUPS for printers is a plain-text dotPPD. In the case of printers having a Postscript or PDF page description language, it is technically feasible to create a dotPPD which provides at least basic functionality for such printer. A good starting point is the file: /usr/share/cups/model/Postscript-level2.ppd.gz Simply changing the "imageable area" definition for common page sizes in the above file to suit the specific printer can provide a working result, which could enable unsupported printers (whether old or new) to be utilised. Printable area tends to be well defined in the user manual for a printer. === Strictly for Geeks === In the case of printers that do '''not''' have Postscript/PDF page description language, the above work-around could be extended, but additionally requires knowledge of the "cups-filter" required by the printer. This parameter is also included towards the top of a dotPPD file and might be ascertained from the dotPPD file for similar printers. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] c4898a818d04a0a4a214c2c7ee896cb38236ef32 1448 1447 2016-01-27T02:12:13Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki In the case of CUPS printing sub-system, as used by OS other than Windows, it is sometimes feasible to get a printer working satisfactorily without a specific driver being available === Getting Techhnical === The crucial "settings" file used by CUPS for printers is a plain-text dotPPD. In the case of printers having a Postscript or PDF page description language, it is technically feasible to create a dotPPD which provides at least basic functionality for such printer. A good starting point is the file: /usr/share/cups/model/Postscript-level2.ppd.gz Simply changing the "imageable area" definition for common page sizes in the above file to suit the specific printer can provide a working result, which could enable unsupported printers (whether old or new) to be utilised. Printable area tends to be well defined in the user manual for a printer. === Strictly for Geeks === In the case of printers that do '''not''' have Postscript/PDF page description language, the above work-around could be extended, but additionally requires knowledge of the "cups-filter" required by the printer. This parameter is also included towards the top of a dotPPD file and might be ascertained from the dotPPD file for similar printers. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:12, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 19408bfa04c34aa3c9da0ab3c50253268ac39acc 0 17 1466 1465 2016-01-27T04:03:43Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] f0f4b049cd5dd48aa9f01b399c9210fed42691fb 1467 1466 2016-01-27T04:05:35Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === Configuration === CUPS is configured via a web browser. Its URL on the local computer is: http://localhost:631 Windows might not implement the short-cut "localhost". If not, then substitute the real IP address of the PC. Execute "IPCONFIG" from a Windows command line to find this address. From the server computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Share printers connected to this system" is checked: [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary === Quicktest === Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print === Preliminary Troubleshooting === ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check that: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **as a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client **version 1.5 clients produce jobs as PDF files, that are likely to be rejected by 1.3/1.4 servers, which expect PostScript files **preferably upgrade the complete CUPS system on the server to version 1.5 ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer **following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a437be66d30e73e512ae44c126ac27c3f4958c9f 1468 1467 2016-01-27T04:06:41Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == An overview of the techniques that are feasible for Windows and guides to implmenting those is available from: == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 89ebb5e00b2d677778bf24ea58be12b384e533d7 1469 1468 2016-01-27T04:08:26Z Rpeters 14 substantial re-write, oriented to CUPS 1.6 and later wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 865d018a4ea5bdb215cebb7a9154db8f91c4b78b 1470 1469 2016-01-27T04:09:19Z Rpeters 14 /* Android & iOS */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App, specific to the printer, to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e2ed6cba68993b49028294e08a243842e04a83cb 1471 1470 2016-01-27T04:15:47Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS Versioning Issues */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App, specific to the printer, to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later offer better long term solution **currently no interoperability issues between various releases *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e8c86d8d1f0a36fd3a631011780e26a545b498cf 1472 1471 2016-01-27T04:17:03Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App, specific to the printer, to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later offer better long term solution **currently no interoperability issues between various releases *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] b7145b31a462d64f0fc294fc97bcede5e6e98cff 1473 1472 2016-01-27T04:21:32Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App, specific to the printer, to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Inter-Version Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, anAs a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the clientd be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Inter-Version Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later offer better long term solution **currently no interoperability issues between various releases *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a04ffce6bcd204ac62ed8750e1b6b42ace7f2fe1 1474 1473 2016-01-27T04:22:52Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App, specific to the printer, to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Inter-Version Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, anAs a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the clientd be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Inter-Version Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later offer better long term solution **currently no interoperability issues between various releases *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others ==== In Detail ==== From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 36ccf085be132cb7e942ea658fc2a005c2ac65bf 1475 1474 2016-01-27T04:28:21Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App, specific to the printer, to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Inter-Version Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, anAs a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the clientd be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Inter-Version Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later offer better long term solution **currently no interoperability issues between various releases *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network, because the following two items are already activated *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others ==== In Detail ==== From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:46, 27 January 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 49b08307364cb721a98a7aadab0d68254618c043 2 95 1476 1461 2016-01-27T11:33:10Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e20c9ba3caa8063684a13607ea1ded537df9a8a0 1477 1476 2016-01-28T10:50:06Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" 2is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e127acb1f627692d20f2101691a109637810e8ba 1478 1477 2016-01-28T23:34:08Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system. Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, the key file is /etc/cups/client.conf. On many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed in the CUPS "administration" tab, ensure that "Show printers shared by other systems" is checked [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Use printers shared by others The above troubleshooting tips apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 484f32fff230d8e20901f6e99a72842a4141cd81 1479 1478 2016-01-29T01:55:21Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, the key file is /etc/cups/client.conf. On many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 02f55135a986ea053bf3ab47299978b3ede818bb 1480 1479 2016-01-29T02:12:27Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *set CUPS on server to share printers *set CUPS on client to use printers shared by others From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes From the client computer, the key file is /etc/cups/client.conf. On many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] afd40cf3b3db7d2e5d8840316341aa3800feceb7 1481 1480 2016-01-29T02:36:59Z Rpeters 14 /* Summary of Changes */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients , the key file is /etc/cups/client.conf. On many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e22a5e4d5c0260b95c2c05f4f57201e7735b44b2 1482 1481 2016-01-29T02:45:36Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) , the key file is /etc/cups/client.conf. On many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 546694d68950136bb87e6d2b2f8e28be0cb6fe0e 1483 1482 2016-01-29T02:56:24Z Rpeters 14 /* Summary of Changes */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available, changes need to be made manually: 1modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) 2modify the key file is /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e381279e825962fb4afb0d5e68d4666d5ef94825 1484 1483 2016-01-29T04:07:57Z Rpeters 14 /* Summary of Changes */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available, changes need to be made manually: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the key file is /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] f6df1ca60ee5d0a8b150e45da8e4959216f65d50 1485 1484 2016-01-29T04:08:40Z Rpeters 14 /* Summary of Changes */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available, changes need to be made manually: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the key file is /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 213824fd83009ffe9eeaf4d3426fc83149133f14 1486 1485 2016-01-29T04:13:57Z Rpeters 14 /* Summary of Changes */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6fe0ed396e63d966df8687683fbbc64b9084fcab 1488 1486 2016-01-30T02:56:02Z Rpeters 14 /* Summary of Changes */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 42cb0e0c83138cded97c88edda940c124a6fec89 1489 1488 2016-01-30T02:57:25Z Rpeters 14 /* Summary of Changes */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 289a4723097b1b2f193369d484169df10b6dd425 1490 1489 2016-01-30T02:57:52Z Rpeters 14 /* Summary of Changes */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] d52a066cc2db44b98cfb47f1b5300664d6a63288 1491 1490 2016-01-30T04:14:33Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:print_settings_main | Main]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect [[Image:CUPS_server_connect | Connect to CUPS Server]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 83fe11efc852474c1c16f6f845f581df075bbd9c 1493 1491 2016-01-30T04:18:47Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:Print_settings_main | Main]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect [[Image:CUPS_server_connect | Connect to CUPS Server]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 914ff4fa007c84805e3a28794c6b83f10571447c 1494 1493 2016-01-30T04:19:58Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:Print_settings_main.png | Main]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect [[Image:CUPS_server_connect | Connect to CUPS Server]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 7674348ef20a5bd210021eb7ba58b65b95f3d751 1496 1494 2016-01-30T04:22:14Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:Print_settings_main.png | Main]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png | Connect to CUPS Server]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 88bed57c9bc3af22860c9c4583e30107bc36d74a 1497 1496 2016-01-30T04:23:43Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:Print_settings_main.png | Main]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png | Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 735e1c32205f2bdaddcc02fdc503858d8b3af549 1498 1497 2016-01-30T04:24:29Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:Print_settings_main.png | Main]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png | Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 090fcb01e7296e2d0b6bce9259213c2f816102bb 1499 1498 2016-01-30T04:39:46Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png | Printers-localhost]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png | Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png | Printers-discovered]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 347525140e064bc3c4091a7611ebcb159d1d7ca3 1502 1499 2016-01-30T04:48:52Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |left|frame|Printers-localhost!]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png | Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png | Printers-discovered]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 28fcfbf82a7f8e53cbe357d45494b152dea39ce7 1503 1502 2016-01-30T04:50:54Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Start this applet to get its main window [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |left|frame|Printers-localhost!]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame| Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png | Printers-discovered]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6386fe23fc2ace79cb8a6e943b6e09c67b70a013 1504 1503 2016-01-30T05:33:30Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |left|frame|]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame| Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |right|frame|| Printers-discovered]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 3db6dabfe7086e6ea56010cd2cb4c2ebc191bd33 1505 1504 2016-01-30T06:25:36Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none|frame|]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame| Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |right|frame|| Printers-discovered]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a862dad78c1a28a6a1e13c44c190952be246621d 1506 1505 2016-01-30T06:28:30Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none|frame|]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame| Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |right|frame|| Printers-discovered]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 065499256ef78be66517dd5cd8e44ae65bd23f36 1507 1506 2016-01-30T06:29:42Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none|frame|]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame| Connect to CUPS Server]]Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |right|frame|| Printers-discovered]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a2654ce37eb8aa08d43445708c06ab7741348537 1508 1507 2016-01-30T06:30:28Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none|frame|]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame| Connect to CUPS Server]]Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame|| Printers-discovered]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 1b6bb9aa08b65282f729c4cd255a2f4d4e4a0809 1509 1508 2016-01-30T06:32:57Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none|frame]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame| Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 3bfe18edffac3a309262eb062a927977d66cd499 1510 1509 2016-01-30T06:34:14Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame| Connect to CUPS Server]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ca063f3db51fc08f2992caa6900572a393c20a75 1511 1510 2016-01-30T06:36:51Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog Change the name of the server to hostname [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame]] or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 32fa29a5df4aa8c16a809b1037693d12f966a28b 1512 1511 2016-01-30T06:38:11Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left|frame]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 6358c481d3692f91afc6a100d23bd2fd386d969c 1513 1512 2016-01-30T06:42:03Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog Change the name of the server to hostname [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 39580ded02b09c35d22f5355c4c8a238b19635ef 1514 1513 2016-01-30T06:43:45Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4048f06fc4505485ae20d39ce42e2be4deda9498 1515 1514 2016-01-30T06:45:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] ==== Retained Configuration ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2e2e93dd3941b4baa7fde77ae4810f8757c199f9 6 226 1487 2016-01-30T02:46:05Z Rpeters 14 icon used by most Print Settings applets wikitext text/x-wiki icon used by most Print Settings applets d5d988fd5b6aea952080bbd281367a22fc50878c 6 227 1492 2016-01-30T04:16:55Z Rpeters 14 opening window of Print Settings applet aka system-config-printer wikitext text/x-wiki opening window of Print Settings applet aka system-config-printer 881f0f7c26de4e292b287dc0174521ae3a7252be 6 228 1495 2016-01-30T04:21:46Z Rpeters 14 dialog window of system-config-printer for server selection wikitext text/x-wiki dialog window of system-config-printer for server selection d6fee45b47d3a074a69c7c38df2b8fd400a1b69f 6 229 1500 2016-01-30T04:40:42Z Rpeters 14 typical window when no printers configured or discovered wikitext text/x-wiki typical window when no printers configured or discovered 889cf9168feed82c13e1a1d421e0079083bce251 6 230 1501 2016-01-30T04:43:21Z Rpeters 14 window showing many printers, including those discovered on network wikitext text/x-wiki window showing many printers, including those discovered on network 75e84cdf6131272c067e54c740250b2115ce5de5 2 95 1516 1515 2016-01-30T06:49:35Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 78f69af79d09ead2fca714bca1aa37bf9299ffa7 1517 1516 2016-01-30T06:50:29Z Rpeters 14 /* Temporary Fix */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a149c222c2e07643230fca31b5566ddeb80c9883 1518 1517 2016-01-30T06:52:52Z Rpeters 14 /* Retained Configuration */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4828e0e2374457e126f8a13f56691b4677fe9d59 1519 1518 2016-01-30T06:54:44Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Clients and servers from the following systems inter-work without changes to configuration: *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Other environments require changes ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 84cb46fd14a4c7c74949180faae4b9e95ce68a35 1520 1519 2016-01-30T06:55:08Z Rpeters 14 /* Retained Configuration */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Clients and servers from the following systems inter-work without changes to configuration: *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Other environments require changes ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] bff637281ed66639bad94cb2c640f30f546671b5 1521 1520 2016-01-30T06:56:29Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Clients and servers from the following systems inter-work without changes to configuration: *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Other environments may require changes ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] a682c5c440552023950c640a76b19dd4eb7d02c3 1522 1521 2016-01-30T07:03:18Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Clients and servers from the following systems inter-work without changes to configuration: *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Other environments may require changes ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Clients and servers from the following systems inter-work without changes to configuration: *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 31a70d1320a40cb72996bb8af5a59b73ffacb53d 1523 1522 2016-01-30T07:07:30Z Rpeters 14 /* CUPS 1.6 and later */ wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. Clients and servers from the following systems inter-work without changes to configuration: *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Other environments may require changes ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Two tools are widely deployed for administering CUPS. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 === Summary of Changes === The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or the applet system-config-printer (Print Settings) **because browser interface to CUPS no longer has features to configure clients From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 2562c654c72a5a03d1c958a3e50f00cc09f5747a 1524 1523 2016-01-30T07:17:11Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Other environments may require changes For a quick test, from the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Neither of the two tools widely deployed for administering CUPS are able to make permanent changes to printer discovery. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 Some of the changes required below need to be made by editing conf files and executing commands at a terminal === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or a combination of editing files then executing commands The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf**does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] ab0de82bcd8e2f407838878981d66e2fc2bdf68f 0 112 1525 1274 2016-01-30T15:45:45Z Gjpotts 16 /* Introduction */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-N (Group N) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the PCUG Training Centre with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Eleanor Whelan (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 22 October 2014 **Session 2: Wed 29 October 2014 **Session 3: Wed 05 November 2014 **Session 4: Wed 12 November 2014 **Session 5: Wed 19 November 2014 **Session 6: Wed 26 November 2014 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': PCUG, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder *'''Fee''': $60 for members, $80 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] bd797f4843069f19a72a1ca13430a97ea335a7dd 1526 1525 2016-01-30T23:05:44Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $80 for members, $100 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f5f23bae8c9155d051c9ad82a40618bb5b40455f 1527 1526 2016-01-30T23:15:03Z Mikec 31 /* Courses for 2014 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $80 for members, $100 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d4214aa8918f7480707668053518712400f9f7ba 1528 1527 2016-02-09T02:28:49Z Quanro 13 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $80 for members, $100 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets Description & Requirements: A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. Trainer: Roger Quarterman When: Held over 6 sessions Session 1: Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm Session 2: Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm Session 3: Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm Session 4: Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October Session 5: Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm Session 6: Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm Where: PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. Fee: $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members Places: up to 10 Applications & Enquiries: Email PCUG Training Coordinatoror phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. [edit == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 1ddd380586dfa4b7827fb3b70d385ed238989302 1529 1528 2016-02-09T02:44:27Z Quanro 13 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $80 for members, $100 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 17 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets Description & Requirements: A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. Trainer: Roger Quarterman When: Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. Where: PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. Fee: $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation Places: up to 10 Applications & Enquiries: Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. Please also refer to the U3A website courses@u3acanberra.org.au for additonal information [edit == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] c40c96a9d4fc060afdf46b227d8947e0a31413d3 1530 1529 2016-02-09T02:45:28Z Quanro 13 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $80 for members, $100 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 17 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets Description & Requirements: A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. Trainer: Roger Quarterman When: Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. Where: 17 Templeton Street, Cook. Fee: $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation Places: up to 10 Applications & Enquiries: Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. Please also refer to the U3A website courses@u3acanberra.org.au for additonal information [edit == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''THIS COURSE IS BEING RUN IN THE EVENINGS TO ACCOMMODATE MEMBERS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ATTENDING DURING WORKING HOURS. *'''Course Title:''' Introduction to Spreadsheets<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' **A training course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!!<br/> **Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy.<br/> **There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Because of the public holidays there will be a two week gap in the middle. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer.<br/> *'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman<br> *'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions ** Session 1: ''Mon 01 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 2: ''Mon 08 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 3: ''Mon 15 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 4: ''Mon 22 September 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** NO CLASSES 29 September & 6 October ** Session 5: ''Mon 13 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm'' ** Session 6: ''Mon 20 October 2014 5.30-7.30pm * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $80 for PCUG members | $120 for non-PCUG members *'''Places:''' up to 10 *'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone PCUG on 1800 728 853. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f6550cc402ea5c7cfa0f66f90363bc3ae7b72a88 1531 1530 2016-02-09T02:48:00Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $80 for members, $100 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 17 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets Description & Requirements: A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. Trainer: Roger Quarterman When: Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. Where: 17 Templeton Street, Cook. Fee: $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation Places: up to 10 Applications & Enquiries: Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. Please also refer to the U3A website courses@u3acanberra.org.au for additonal information [edit == Courses for 2014 == === Office Volunteering Information Session === * '''When:''' Wed 8 October, 2014 1pm - 2.30pm * '''Venue:''' PCUG Centre and Training Room * '''Session Coordinator:''' Karen Adams * '''Aim:''' This is an information session to overview what is involved in Volunteering with the PCUG Office. <br/>(Full orientation will be provided for those who wish to follow-on with volunteering). <br/>We are currently looking for more volunteers to assist in this area.<br/>Attending this session is not an obligation to volunteer, but to help you determine if this volunteering is for you. * '''About:''' The information session will overview a typical office day, with reference to the types of enquiries that may come in, and how to handle them. This can include (but not limited to) payments for membership & email accounts, training course & SIG enquiries, training room hire enquiries, and technical assistance enquiries. Enquiries may be by phone, or in person.<br/>Further detail may be viewed on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/PCUG_Office_and_Centre_Administration PCUG Info Wiki]<br/>'''Note:''' ''Adherence to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp PCUG's Privacy Policy] is a condition of volunteering, where dealing with private member information.'' * '''Costs:''' Free * '''Participants''': Up to 20 participants due to fire-regulation room capacity of the training room. * '''Bookings & Enquiries:''' Please respond to training@pcug.org.au with expressions of interest, queries, or to book in to this session. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === SCANNING SLIDES - Equipment Orientation === * This is an orientation to use of scanning equipment in the PCUG media room. There is NO FEE, as it is not classed as a course. * One of the facilities that we have at the office is a media room that includes equipment for scanning 35 mm slides. So if you are one of those people who has a great collection of colour slides going back for many years (and which you seldom if ever now look at) you might like to digitise them. This is a great way to review, sort, edit and generally make your collection more accessible and meaningful. It also means that there is an opportunity to correct the fading and the change in colour balance that will have occurred with old slides. * The equipment and the software performs much better than some of the low cost scanners that are available on the market. When you have got the hang of the system you can plough through a big batch at the rate of about 1 minute per slide. There are a few little quirks to sort out, but they are easily explained. * If you are interested please email [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] we will organise an introductory session, with a maximum of 2 participants per group (due to the size of the room), lasting approximately one hour. * Sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, with more added as necessary:<br/> - Wednesday 27 August, 2014 at 2pm<br/> - Monday 1 September, 2014 at 2pm<br/> ----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------- === WORD - Introduction to Word (using Microsoft Word 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' currently being accepted * '''Scheduled:''' Mon 3, 10, 17, & 24 November 2014 09.45am-12.15pm * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to creating and editing documents using Microsoft Word. Prior experience using this product is not necessary. Prerequisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. The course is '''''basic''''' use of MS Word, e.g. creating a document, saving it, use of directories/folders, formatting (fonts, bold, underline, alignment, etc.) editing (cut and paste, etc.). If anyone has a specific request this can be considered. Depending on the level of knowledge and group progress, the class could touch on more advanced topics. * '''Equipment:''' Students should bring a USB stick to save work to that, as there may be exercises to practise between lessons. * '''Trainer''': Anne Meade (with assistance depending on class enrolment numbers) * '''Places''': up to 10. * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] (preferred) or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. <br/> Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page] ----------------------------------------------------------------- == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Trainer''': Peter Barker * '''Places''': 5 (further places up to 8 may be considered if there is an assistant available to the course). * '''Course fee''': $100 (or $60 for PCUG members) * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions ** Wed 7 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 14 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm; and ** Wed 21 May 2014 1000am and 1230 pm. * '''Where: '''PCUG Training Room, 27 Mulley St Holder. *'''Fee:''' $85 (or $45 for PCUG members) *'''Places:''' CAPPED AT 6 *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] c70961a1f5657fb82927434ba8ee07057184b94d 1536 1531 2016-02-11T03:11:11Z Offcmngr 6 correcting formatting in Excel course & tidying up previous course info wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $80 for members, $100 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 17 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely use software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from pre- school arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. **'''Where:''' 17 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. **'''Please also refer to the U3A website [[courses@u3acanberra.org.au]] for additional information == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 477bf6892c502e77362c9e63240b56e4bda7f1f1 1537 1536 2016-02-12T14:51:01Z Gjpotts 16 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $80 for members, $100 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 17 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. **'''Where:''' 17 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. **'''Please also refer to the U3A website [[courses@u3acanberra.org.au]] for additional information == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 74fedf0d56a62eeed07f4c7f2a7a45a854c00924 1538 1537 2016-02-14T03:32:35Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $50 for members, $70 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 17 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. **'''Where:''' 17 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. **'''Please also refer to the U3A website [[courses@u3acanberra.org.au]] for additional information == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f2a0891b013964cc07908d38d0fb205072956a35 1558 1538 2016-03-11T07:31:14Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-O (Group O) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 9 March 2016 **Session 2: Wed 16 March 2016 **Session 3: Wed 23 March 2016 **Session 4: Wed 30 March 2016 **Session 5: Wed 6 April 2016 **Session 6: Wed 13 April 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $50 for members, $70 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 17 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. **'''Please also refer to the U3A website [[courses@u3acanberra.org.au]] for additional information == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 86a69b45de549997dc8ab856b536ac7d659369b7 0 88 1532 1408 2016-02-10T22:11:21Z Rpeters 14 /* Functionality */added additional DE & distributions wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention ==== Bandwidth ==== for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet (& subsidiaries) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] bf8e418da9fc7bba1cc9baac6a79e126f4816cd5 1533 1532 2016-02-10T22:15:28Z Rpeters 14 /* Support */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet (& subsidiaries) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 514e98b4e216fa66690dfc2563e4d533d3cac76b 1534 1533 2016-02-10T22:30:33Z Rpeters 14 /* Distribution Specific Notes */added Antergos, ROSA wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet (& subsidiaries) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ====== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 7a0473ad8751468862523cde65c0717849ebe393 1535 1534 2016-02-10T22:47:32Z Rpeters 14 /* Distribution Specific Notes */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet (& subsidiaries) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ecaf7d7cd4075944fa126aeae980296d48f4ff4d 1544 1535 2016-02-20T01:23:06Z Rpeters 14 /* Bandwidth */removed reference to TIP wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essentilal that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary scrreen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered) **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for PCUG members having a dearth of download quota, the following are unmetered download from TIP #Ubuntu #Debian #*an Ubuntu/Debian download should be redirected automatically to TIP server - but check your usage stats before & after for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] e7d735b06db08040bcae6893078d9810d261eb60 0 195 1539 1059 2016-02-19T23:37:51Z Rpeters 14 /* Categories of Internet Connection */noted that dial-up effectively obsolete wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The primary purpose of routing, in a home or small enterprise, is to share one Internet connection between multiple devices (computer/laptop/tablet/VoIP) === Categories of Internet Connection === Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via Cable or NBN **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category *Broadband via ADSL **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *"Mobile" Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) *Dial-up via conventional phone line **no longer provided by most ISP **nowadays suited to email only **line speed is inadequate for most web pages === Applicable Routers === If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers", depending on the type of Internet connection being used *for an ADSL service use an ADSL combined modem/router *for a mobile broadband service use any device supporting this type of service **"pocket" mobile broadband router **an ADSL modem/router or broadband router that supports USB mobile broadband modem *for most other services use a (broadband) router If the product description of a router does not make clear its applicability see "Getting Technical" below for some guidelines If an existing router of any form is in service, but has only one Ethernet socket, then a new router is rarely required *adding an Ethernet '''switch''' should enable sharing *although a replacment, multi-port router would take less space and consume less electricity === ICS === Not uncommon earlier practice was to use a Windows PC with "Internet Connection Sharing" (ICS) activated, to share an Internet connection with other devices. Effectively the PC was a router. Nowadays this has several disadvantages: *cost of the additional network "card" outweighs the cost of a mid-range separate router **ditto for WiFi, if required *complicated when multiple devices sharing wired LAN *much lower electricity comsumption for separate router **enables main PC to be powered off much of the time *expensive to have a reserve ICS computer **people relying on Internet more extensivly nowadays **reserve, dedicated router device affordable *most ISP have abandoned earlier practice of allowing connection from only one. explicit PC *any security compromise on the main PC puts others on the LAN at risk == Getting Technical == === Characteristics of Router Types === ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength Dial-up Routers *no longer commercially available *options/alternatives include **change to another type of ISP service **DIY router see: [[DIY]] USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required === Selection === A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] === Configuration === *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Strictly for Geeks == Various techniques for improving on commercially available routers are outlined at [[DIY]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 14:22, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 8912100cc769d83125b3cddb931af1d0f6cdc1f4 1540 1539 2016-02-19T23:58:57Z Rpeters 14 /* Categories of Internet Connection */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The primary purpose of routing, in a home or small enterprise, is to share one Internet connection between multiple devices (computer/laptop/tablet/VoIP) === Categories of Internet Connection === Most ISP allow subscribers to "Bring their own modem". Users need to be aware that older or economy modem/routers are not capable of handling all three common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via VDSL(2) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) *Broadband via ADSL(2/2+) **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *"Mobile" Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) If uncertain what category of service would be provided then the most reliable course of action is to accept the ISP's offer of a new modem/router. Often this will come pre-configured with your login details and require little or no setting up Dial-up Internet via conventional phone line is effectively obsolete: **no longer provided by most ISP **nowadays suited to email only **line speed is inadequate for most web pages === Applicable Routers === If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers", depending on the type of Internet connection being used *for an ADSL service use an ADSL combined modem/router *for a mobile broadband service use any device supporting this type of service **"pocket" mobile broadband router **an ADSL modem/router or broadband router that supports USB mobile broadband modem *for most other services use a (broadband) router If the product description of a router does not make clear its applicability see "Getting Technical" below for some guidelines If an existing router of any form is in service, but has only one Ethernet socket, then a new router is rarely required *adding an Ethernet '''switch''' should enable sharing *although a replacment, multi-port router would take less space and consume less electricity === ICS === Not uncommon earlier practice was to use a Windows PC with "Internet Connection Sharing" (ICS) activated, to share an Internet connection with other devices. Effectively the PC was a router. Nowadays this has several disadvantages: *cost of the additional network "card" outweighs the cost of a mid-range separate router **ditto for WiFi, if required *complicated when multiple devices sharing wired LAN *much lower electricity comsumption for separate router **enables main PC to be powered off much of the time *expensive to have a reserve ICS computer **people relying on Internet more extensivly nowadays **reserve, dedicated router device affordable *most ISP have abandoned earlier practice of allowing connection from only one. explicit PC *any security compromise on the main PC puts others on the LAN at risk == Getting Technical == === Characteristics of Router Types === ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength Dial-up Routers *no longer commercially available *options/alternatives include **change to another type of ISP service **DIY router see: [[DIY]] USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required === Selection === A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] === Configuration === *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Strictly for Geeks == Various techniques for improving on commercially available routers are outlined at [[DIY]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 14:22, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] e0e551e684bee77eb75cda7777af27141939e8bb 1541 1540 2016-02-20T00:14:36Z Rpeters 14 /* ICS */simplified page describing now obsolete technique wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The primary purpose of routing, in a home or small enterprise, is to share one Internet connection between multiple devices (computer/laptop/tablet/VoIP) === Categories of Internet Connection === Most ISP allow subscribers to "Bring their own modem". Users need to be aware that older or economy modem/routers are not capable of handling all three common types of Internet connection: *Broadband via VDSL(2) **TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category **technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN) *Broadband via ADSL(2/2+) **also called "ULL" by some suppliers *"Mobile" Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G) If uncertain what category of service would be provided then the most reliable course of action is to accept the ISP's offer of a new modem/router. Often this will come pre-configured with your login details and require little or no setting up Dial-up Internet via conventional phone line is effectively obsolete: **no longer provided by most ISP **nowadays suited to email only **line speed is inadequate for most web pages === Applicable Routers === If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers", depending on the type of Internet connection being used *for an ADSL service use an ADSL combined modem/router *for a mobile broadband service use any device supporting this type of service **"pocket" mobile broadband router **an ADSL modem/router or broadband router that supports USB mobile broadband modem *for most other services use a (broadband) router If the product description of a router does not make clear its applicability see "Getting Technical" below for some guidelines If an existing router of any form is in service, but has only one Ethernet socket, then a new router is rarely required *adding an Ethernet '''switch''' should enable sharing *although a replacment, multi-port router would take less space and consume less electricity === ICS === Not uncommon earlier practice was to use a Windows PC with "Internet Connection Sharing" (ICS) activated, to share an Internet connection with other devices. Effectively the PC was a router. This technique is now obsolete: *low cost multi-port modem/routers or routers are now available *likely to also provide more reliable connection == Getting Technical == === Characteristics of Router Types === ADSL Modem/Routers *always applicable to ADSL connections *some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well **check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer *few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN *need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices **were popular ~ 10 years ago **supported only''' one''' computer, in absence of additional router *WiFi LAN included in many models Broadband Routers *might be described simply as "Router" **primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN *many have USB port **need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem **might support only USB printer *technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router **new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution **suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to: ***extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers ***enhance security of older ADSL devices *WiFi LAN included in many models Mobile Broadband Routers *usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet **require mobile phone plan of some type **those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem **others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem ***'''essential''' to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models *might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office) *almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity *may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection *some powered by internal, rechargable battery **these models tend to have limited transmission range **usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception **WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc *need to stand '''vertically''' for best signal strength Dial-up Routers *no longer commercially available *options/alternatives include **change to another type of ISP service **DIY router see: [[DIY]] USB Wireless Broadband Modem *'''not''' a router *requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required === Selection === A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines: *an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell *if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar *if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features **see [[Commercial]] === Configuration === *Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser **other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users *Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site **peruse manual '''prior''' to purchasing device *user interface via web browser varies widely **impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines **good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well == Strictly for Geeks == Various techniques for improving on commercially available routers are outlined at [[DIY]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 14:22, 1 September 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 3f7619e867c870055e4746198600c405ab36cae0 0 132 1542 1060 2016-02-20T00:52:18Z Rpeters 14 moved to more specific page DIY_Firewall_Router wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 0 7 1543 1446 2016-02-20T00:52:33Z Rpeters 14 /* Gateway_Router */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 6463fe28bdd8d2e524223b1269e6a212a90be96e 1549 1543 2016-02-20T02:16:03Z Rpeters 14 /* Software */added Terminal Emulation wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 6ba2262580bfaab23b2867b679af9a8b4a9f5568 1559 1549 2016-03-28T00:51:15Z Rpeters 14 /* General */added PDF_Manipulation wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 6bc725a186ca9211367b9ef74f445270f26e8907 1565 1559 2016-04-13T01:53:10Z Rpeters 14 /* Office */added Calligra section wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] * ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a90a7682efa25713ae44886410892b4f4d65d23b 0 231 1545 2016-02-20T01:48:29Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "'''Bold text'''== Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the limited support that is provided for commercial units. With careful hardware selection the former do not requi..." wikitext text/x-wiki '''Bold text'''== Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the limited support that is provided for commercial units. With careful hardware selection the former do not require much additional space or wattage. A superceded PC provides a suitable "trial-horse" for anyone wanting to explore DIY hardware Firewall. Any PC having a minimum of CPU 500 MHz plus 512 MB RAM is adequate. Web sites for the software below provide lists of newer, compact hardware that could be deployed longer-term. === Software === Although many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people Detailed hardware and configuration guidelines are provided on the relevant web sites. The notes below cover some additional issues === Hardware === *PC having x86 CPU are the most reliable for the above software **some '''only''' "development boards" having ARM CPU are now viable in lieu x86 - see "Strictly for Geeks" below **optional functions, particularly download caching, require extra CPU power, RAM & storage *10 Mb/s network interfaces suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed New low wattage main-boards supporting x86 compatible CPU are now available, although not widely stocked. *an issue now with older mainboards is that these might not be compatible with the Grub 2 bootloader, now being used by the software and it is not feasible to replace the bootloader in these packaged distributions. === Zoning === Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in up-market commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == Be aware that the following techniques can render commecial routers unusable and perhaps unrecoverable, if applied unsuccessfully. === openWRT === openWRT http://wiki.openwrt.org is a long standing project aimed initially at utilising improved software on commerical routers. More recently it has morphed to: *a more general embedded Linux distribution for compact devices *covering a much wider range of off-the-shelf devices One of the more popular devices to which openWRT it is currently applied is the TP-Link TL-703N *'''not''' sold on the Australian market *must be sourced from China *nearest equivalent on the Australian market appears to be the TP-Link TL-MR3020 === Developer Boards === Boards utilising an ARM CPU can now be used for DIY routers *IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for these **and only for specific boards - see IPFire site *ARM compilations are not robust to "unclean" shutdowns **advisable to retain a reserve copy on SD card **advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation *raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] **alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it Deploying IPFire on these boards does require more technical knowledge and equipment but has potential to match commercial routers in wattage and size *whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates Developer boards typically have more RAM & CPU resources than openWRT devices thus making print servers and caching routers more practical. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:48, 20 February 2016 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b99a35cc880cce1459102b9c4f15cc685b2a5f6d 1546 1545 2016-02-20T01:52:22Z Rpeters 14 /* Developer Boards */ wikitext text/x-wiki '''Bold text'''== Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the limited support that is provided for commercial units. With careful hardware selection the former do not require much additional space or wattage. A superceded PC provides a suitable "trial-horse" for anyone wanting to explore DIY hardware Firewall. Any PC having a minimum of CPU 500 MHz plus 512 MB RAM is adequate. Web sites for the software below provide lists of newer, compact hardware that could be deployed longer-term. === Software === Although many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people Detailed hardware and configuration guidelines are provided on the relevant web sites. The notes below cover some additional issues === Hardware === *PC having x86 CPU are the most reliable for the above software **some '''only''' "development boards" having ARM CPU are now viable in lieu x86 - see "Strictly for Geeks" below **optional functions, particularly download caching, require extra CPU power, RAM & storage *10 Mb/s network interfaces suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed New low wattage main-boards supporting x86 compatible CPU are now available, although not widely stocked. *an issue now with older mainboards is that these might not be compatible with the Grub 2 bootloader, now being used by the software and it is not feasible to replace the bootloader in these packaged distributions. === Zoning === Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in up-market commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == Be aware that the following techniques can render commecial routers unusable and perhaps unrecoverable, if applied unsuccessfully. === openWRT === openWRT http://wiki.openwrt.org is a long standing project aimed initially at utilising improved software on commerical routers. More recently it has morphed to: *a more general embedded Linux distribution for compact devices *covering a much wider range of off-the-shelf devices One of the more popular devices to which openWRT it is currently applied is the TP-Link TL-703N *'''not''' sold on the Australian market *must be sourced from China *nearest equivalent on the Australian market appears to be the TP-Link TL-MR3020 === Developer Boards === Boards utilising an ARM CPU can now be used for DIY routers *IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for these **and only for specific boards - see IPFire site *ARM compilations are not robust to "unclean" shutdowns **advisable to retain a reserve copy on SD card **advisable to select hardware having an ARM CPU series matching the compilation *raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] **alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it Deploying IPFire on these boards does require more technical knowledge and equipment but has potential to match commercial routers in wattage and size *whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates Developer boards typically have more RAM & CPU resources than openWRT devices thus making print servers and caching routers more practical. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 12:48, 20 February 2016 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] f1c11283ebe0f1d2fdb5c8db3ef1f47a34920350 1547 1546 2016-02-20T01:53:47Z Rpeters 14 /* Developer Boards */ wikitext text/x-wiki '''Bold text'''== Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the limited support that is provided for commercial units. With careful hardware selection the former do not require much additional space or wattage. A superceded PC provides a suitable "trial-horse" for anyone wanting to explore DIY hardware Firewall. Any PC having a minimum of CPU 500 MHz plus 512 MB RAM is adequate. Web sites for the software below provide lists of newer, compact hardware that could be deployed longer-term. === Software === Although many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people Detailed hardware and configuration guidelines are provided on the relevant web sites. The notes below cover some additional issues === Hardware === *PC having x86 CPU are the most reliable for the above software **some '''only''' "development boards" having ARM CPU are now viable in lieu x86 - see "Strictly for Geeks" below **optional functions, particularly download caching, require extra CPU power, RAM & storage *10 Mb/s network interfaces suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed New low wattage main-boards supporting x86 compatible CPU are now available, although not widely stocked. *an issue now with older mainboards is that these might not be compatible with the Grub 2 bootloader, now being used by the software and it is not feasible to replace the bootloader in these packaged distributions. === Zoning === Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in up-market commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted == Strictly for Geeks == Be aware that the following techniques can render commecial routers unusable and perhaps unrecoverable, if applied unsuccessfully. === openWRT === openWRT http://wiki.openwrt.org is a long standing project aimed initially at utilising improved software on commerical routers. More recently it has morphed to: *a more general embedded Linux distribution for compact devices *covering a much wider range of off-the-shelf devices One of the more popular devices to which openWRT it is currently applied is the TP-Link TL-703N *'''not''' sold on the Australian market *must be sourced from China *nearest equivalent on the Australian market appears to be the TP-Link TL-MR3020 === Developer Boards === Boards utilising an ARM CPU can now be used for DIY routers *IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for these **and only for specific boards - see IPFire site **essential to select exact hardware specified *ARM compilations are not robust to "unclean" shutdowns **advisable to retain a reserve copy on SD card *raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] **alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it Deploying IPFire on these boards does require more technical knowledge and equipment but has potential to match commercial routers in wattage and size *whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates Developer boards typically have more RAM & CPU resources than openWRT devices thus making print servers and caching routers more practical. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 12:48, 20 February 2016 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b95e1b16e02405b47cbbd226fd3d46bb52250653 1548 1547 2016-02-20T02:12:42Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the limited support that is provided for commercial units. With careful hardware selection the former do not require much additional space or wattage. A superceded PC provides a suitable "trial-horse" for anyone wanting to explore DIY hardware Firewall. Any PC having a minimum of CPU 500 MHz plus 512 MB RAM is adequate. Web sites for the software below provide lists of newer, compact hardware that could be deployed longer-term. === Software === Although many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people Detailed hardware and configuration guidelines are provided on the relevant web sites. The notes below cover some additional issues === Hardware === *PC having x86 CPU are the most reliable for the above software **some '''only''' "development boards" having ARM CPU are now viable in lieu x86 - see "Strictly for Geeks" below **optional functions, particularly download caching, require extra CPU power, RAM & storage *10 Mb/s network interfaces suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed New low wattage main-boards supporting x86 compatible CPU are now available, although not widely stocked. *an issue now with older mainboards is that these might not be compatible with the Grub 2 bootloader, now being used by the software and it is not feasible to replace the bootloader in these packaged distributions. === Zoning === Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in up-market commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted === Routed Modems === The software is most simply configured for use with a modem that has been put into '''Bridged Mode'''. Some newer models, including some USB Mobile Broadband devices, are permanently in '''Routing Mode'''. Different settings are required for these and are detailed at [[Wireless Broadband]] Although written for wireless broadband devices, the settings also work with wired modems in '''Routing Mode'''. === Fail-Over === This feature is often provided in commercial routers, to quickly switch Internet connection between wired and wireless WAN, as a contingency. It is more complicated to set up in DIY Firewall Routers because the latter have settings for their WAN interface in the low-level menu. Simplest approach is to use a SD card for the system then cold-swap SD cards & reboot when the other WAN is required. == Strictly for Geeks == Be aware that the following techniques can render commecial routers unusable and perhaps unrecoverable, if applied unsuccessfully. === openWRT === openWRT http://wiki.openwrt.org is a long standing project aimed initially at utilising improved software on commerical routers. More recently it has morphed to: *a more general embedded Linux distribution for compact devices *covering a much wider range of off-the-shelf devices One of the more popular devices to which openWRT it is currently applied is the TP-Link TL-703N *'''not''' sold on the Australian market *must be sourced from China *nearest equivalent on the Australian market appears to be the TP-Link TL-MR3020 === Developer Boards === Boards utilising an ARM CPU can now be used for DIY routers *IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for these **and only for specific boards - see IPFire site **essential to select exact hardware specified *ARM compilations are not robust to "unclean" shutdowns **advisable to retain a reserve copy on SD card *raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] **alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it Deploying IPFire on these boards does require more technical knowledge and equipment but has potential to match commercial routers in wattage and size *whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates *BananaPi boards additionally require a 3.3V UART-USB cable during installation Developer boards typically have more RAM & CPU resources than openWRT devices thus making print servers and caching routers more practical. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 12:48, 20 February 2016 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 6d0daa5af2c6e7beaac7936a3df07702e9a4b5f0 1557 1548 2016-02-20T02:58:48Z Rpeters 14 /* Developer Boards */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Getting Technical == DIY routers overcome the limited support that is provided for commercial units. With careful hardware selection the former do not require much additional space or wattage. A superceded PC provides a suitable "trial-horse" for anyone wanting to explore DIY hardware Firewall. Any PC having a minimum of CPU 500 MHz plus 512 MB RAM is adequate. Web sites for the software below provide lists of newer, compact hardware that could be deployed longer-term. === Software === Although many Linux and BSD can be configured a gateway-router, it is generally simpler and more watt efficient to use a specialised firewall/gateway distribution. Better known ones are listed in [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] Although BSD based distributions such as Monowall are quite functional, their use would involve an additional learning curve for most people Detailed hardware and configuration guidelines are provided on the relevant web sites. The notes below cover some additional issues === Hardware === *PC having x86 CPU are the most reliable for the above software **some '''only''' "development boards" having ARM CPU are now viable in lieu x86 - see "Strictly for Geeks" below **optional functions, particularly download caching, require extra CPU power, RAM & storage *10 Mb/s network interfaces suffice - unless running ADSL 2 or faster link **'''NB''' - speed of other devices on the LAN is irrelevant, LAN performance depends on the ethernet switch deployed New low wattage main-boards supporting x86 compatible CPU are now available, although not widely stocked. *an issue now with older mainboards is that these might not be compatible with the Grub 2 bootloader, now being used by the software and it is not feasible to replace the bootloader in these packaged distributions. === Zoning === Software for DIY routers implements similar network zoning to that in up-market commercial routers. An aspect that is different is the colour coding of zones: *<span style="color:#c93800">'''RED'''</span> for untrusted/unfiltered Internet *<span style="color:green">'''GREEN'''</span> for most trusted, '''wired''' LAN connections *<span style="color:blue">'''BLUE'''</span> for less trusted WiFi connections *<span style="color:#800080">'''PURPLE'''</span> for additional LAN zone *<span style="color:#FF8000">'''ORANGE'''</span> for Demilitarized Zone, (DMZ) **not required by most home users **typically used for stand-alone servers, to which access from the Internet is permitted === Routed Modems === The software is most simply configured for use with a modem that has been put into '''Bridged Mode'''. Some newer models, including some USB Mobile Broadband devices, are permanently in '''Routing Mode'''. Different settings are required for these and are detailed at [[Wireless Broadband]] Although written for wireless broadband devices, the settings also work with wired modems in '''Routing Mode'''. === Fail-Over === This feature is often provided in commercial routers, to quickly switch Internet connection between wired and wireless WAN, as a contingency. It is more complicated to set up in DIY Firewall Routers because the latter have settings for their WAN interface in the low-level menu. Simplest approach is to use a SD card for the system then cold-swap SD cards & reboot when the other WAN is required. == Strictly for Geeks == Be aware that the following techniques can render commecial routers unusable and perhaps unrecoverable, if applied unsuccessfully. === openWRT === openWRT http://wiki.openwrt.org is a long standing project aimed initially at utilising improved software on commerical routers. More recently it has morphed to: *a more general embedded Linux distribution for compact devices *covering a much wider range of off-the-shelf devices One of the more popular devices to which openWRT it is currently applied is the TP-Link TL-703N *'''not''' sold on the Australian market *must be sourced from China *nearest equivalent on the Australian market appears to be the TP-Link TL-MR3020 === Developer Boards === Boards utilising an ARM CPU can now be used for DIY routers *IPFire is the only well-known firewall/router that has reached '''released''' level for these **and only for specific boards - see IPFire site **essential to select exact hardware specified *ARM compilations are not robust to "unclean" shutdowns **advisable to retain a reserve copy on SD card *ssh to these installations is not robust **a USB-to-(low-voltage)-UART cable is desirable see [[Serial_Console]] *raspberry pi is best known hardware example - see [[Raspberry Pi]] **alternatively, raspbian could be adapted as a firewall/router for it Deploying IPFire on these boards does require more technical knowledge and equipment but has potential to match commercial routers in wattage and size *whilst maintaining advantage of frequent software updates *BananaPi boards additionally require a 3.3V UART-USB cable during installation Developer boards typically have more RAM & CPU resources than openWRT devices thus making print servers and caching routers more practical. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 12:48, 20 February 2016 (AEDT) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] beffaad04bb1fccee47ecaf429dae5f1ff31ac8b 0 232 1550 2016-02-20T02:32:40Z Rpeters 14 added Screen & Minicom Putty TBA wikitext text/x-wiki The need for terminal emulation apps is reappearing, in order to access some consumer IT devices. Suitable apps include: *Screen **appears to have better compatibility with modern devices than the older Minicom app **typical invocation is: <nowiki>screen /dev/ttyUSB0 115200</nowiki> *Minicom **initial invocation is: <nowiki>minicom</nowiki> *from which settings can be configured and saved to a file <mydevice>, for later invocation as: <nowiki>minicom mydevice</nowiki> [[Category: Technical Info]] 0e405c55cfc8391f300de80c88024736d02cff9f 1551 1550 2016-02-20T02:34:59Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki The need for terminal emulation apps is reappearing, in order to access some consumer IT devices. Suitable apps include: == Minicom == *initial invocation is: <nowiki>minicom</nowiki> *from which settings can be configured and saved to a file <mydevice>, for later invocation as: <nowiki>minicom mydevice</nowiki> == Putty == == Screen == *appears to have better compatibility with modern devices than the older Minicom app *typical invocation is: <nowiki>screen /dev/ttyUSB0 115200</nowiki> [[Category: Technical Info]] 81e9339916b1298212be9d948f419da44c748aeb 0 224 1552 1415 2016-02-20T02:46:11Z Rpeters 14 /* 12 Volts */added ref to 1.8V devices wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation == 12 Volts == *NB many small devices use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface **some newer devices require a 1.8 V serial interface == Banana Pi == *requires serial console for initial installation *Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 === minicom === *default parameters do not match Banana Pi. The following settings might need to be configured **baud rate 115200 **software flow control Yes **LF Yes **CR Yes *might be necessary to press "Enter" to get minicom to change from "Offline" to "Online" mode === Putty === TBA - might require no reconfiguration == Cubieboard == *requires serial console for initial installation == Raspberry Pi == *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite of HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:36, 16 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 12a71b4e2232fe9b967c6a715260b224dfb68520 1553 1552 2016-02-20T02:51:32Z Rpeters 14 moved terminal emulator details to new page Terminal_Emulator wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation == Interfaces == === 12 Volts === *NB many small devices use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface **some newer devices require a 1.8 V serial interface **Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 == Devices == === Banana Pi === *requires serial console for initial installation === Cubieboard === *requires serial console for initial installation === Raspberry Pi === *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite or HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:36, 16 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category: Technical Info]] acc536288cced7f478af1ad538d8f0f7c409428f 1554 1553 2016-02-20T02:53:00Z Rpeters 14 /* Banana Pi */ wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation == Interfaces == === 12 Volts === *NB many small devices use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface **some newer devices require a 1.8 V serial interface **Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 == Devices == === Banana Pi === *requires serial console for initial installation *default parameters for terminal emulators might not match Banana Pi. The following settings might need to be configured **baud rate 115200 **software flow control Yes **LF Yes **CR Yes === Cubieboard === *requires serial console for initial installation === Raspberry Pi === *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite or HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:36, 16 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 56518b291a82e60a31c4c0e34888085db3350ffc 1555 1554 2016-02-20T02:53:25Z Rpeters 14 /* Cubieboard */ wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation == Interfaces == === 12 Volts === *NB many small devices use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface **some newer devices require a 1.8 V serial interface **Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 == Devices == === Banana Pi === *requires serial console for initial installation *default parameters for terminal emulators might not match Banana Pi. The following settings might need to be configured **baud rate 115200 **software flow control Yes **LF Yes **CR Yes === Cubieboard === *requires serial console for initial installation *uses same parameters as BananaPi above === Raspberry Pi === *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite or HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:36, 16 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category: Technical Info]] d9d26f12566bac213c688cd6342dc58f24a86a2b 1556 1555 2016-02-20T02:56:01Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Several sub-compact devices do not provide initial output to a video device. A serial console must be used for installation == Interfaces == === 12 Volts === *NB many small devices use 3.3 V or 5 V serial interfaces and are likely to be damaged if connected to the conventional COM socket on a PC **USB-serial cables are available cheaply and tend to use 3.3 V interface **some newer devices require a 1.8 V serial interface **Linux generally allocates these as /dev/ttyUSB0 == Apps == see [[Terminal_Emulation]] for suitable apps to use with the serial cable == Devices == === Banana Pi === *requires serial console for initial installation *default parameters for terminal emulators might not match Banana Pi. The following settings might need to be configured **baud rate 115200 **software flow control Yes **LF Yes **CR Yes === Cubieboard === *requires serial console for initial installation *uses same parameters as BananaPi above === Raspberry Pi === *most software puts signal to a video port (Composite or HDMI) during initial installation *use of a serial console for initial installation is optional --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 12:36, 16 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 525bb190e22356c991e3a5cf4920b205bc753cf9 0 233 1560 2016-03-28T01:01:54Z Rpeters 14 Created page with " == pdfForts == This is a plugin for Dolphin & Konqueror, which provides simple GUI actions to combine or alter PDF files. Dolphin & Konqueror are applicable to Linux only. ..." wikitext text/x-wiki == pdfForts == This is a plugin for Dolphin & Konqueror, which provides simple GUI actions to combine or alter PDF files. Dolphin & Konqueror are applicable to Linux only. pdfForts does not appear to be packaged by many distributions. Obtain from https://github.com/sjau/pdfForts Note that the install.sh script appears to have been written for KDE4 and does not put files in the correct location for KFrameworks5. see http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/build-linux-productivity-machine-kde-service-menus/ aa45e455e1cf988754709615379d8b746a688aff 1561 1560 2016-03-28T01:13:56Z Rpeters 14 added pdfForts and note re correct location of files for KFrameworks5 wikitext text/x-wiki == pdfForts == This is a plugin for Dolphin & Konqueror, which provides simple GUI actions to combine or alter PDF files. Dolphin & Konqueror are applicable to '''Linux''' only. pdfForts does not appear to be packaged by many distributions. Obtain from https://github.com/sjau/pdfForts. It does require several dependencies, which typically are packaged by distributions. Note that the install.sh script appears to have been written for KDE4 and does not put files in the correct location for KFrameworks5. see http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/build-linux-productivity-machine-kde-service-menus/. All that is required is to copy files to correct locations: *.sh to /usr/bin/pdfForts *.desktop to /usr/share/kservices5/ServiceMenus/pdfForts Other Linux file managers, such as Thunar, also have facilities for service menus and pdfForts should be able to work there too. [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 512f1f50c6ac83fd1ed1ebeab2db80dbd749d235 1562 1561 2016-03-28T01:15:03Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == pdfForts == This is a plugin for Dolphin & Konqueror, which provides simple GUI actions to combine or alter PDF files. Dolphin & Konqueror are applicable to '''Linux''' only. pdfForts does not appear to be packaged by many distributions. Obtain from https://github.com/sjau/pdfForts. It does require several dependencies, which typically are packaged by distributions. Note that the install.sh script appears to have been written for KDE4 and does not put files in the correct location for KFrameworks5. see http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/build-linux-productivity-machine-kde-service-menus/. All that is required is to copy files to correct locations: <nowiki>*.sh to /usr/bin/pdfForts</nowiki> <nowiki>*.desktop to /usr/share/kservices5/ServiceMenus/pdfForts</nowiki> Other Linux file managers, such as Thunar, also have facilities for service menus and pdfForts should be able to work there too. [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 5944aed3733d8c35ab070f0bf76b8ee4ac8dbaa9 1563 1562 2016-03-28T01:15:21Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == pdfForts == This is a plugin for Dolphin & Konqueror, which provides simple GUI actions to combine or alter PDF files. Dolphin & Konqueror are applicable to '''Linux''' only. pdfForts does not appear to be packaged by many distributions. Obtain from https://github.com/sjau/pdfForts. It does require several dependencies, which typically are packaged by distributions. Note that the install.sh script appears to have been written for KDE4 and does not put files in the correct location for KFrameworks5. see http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/build-linux-productivity-machine-kde-service-menus/. All that is required is to copy files to correct locations: <nowiki>*.sh to /usr/bin/pdfForts</nowiki> <nowiki>*.desktop to /usr/share/kservices5/ServiceMenus/pdfForts</nowiki> Other Linux file managers, such as Thunar, also have facilities for service menus and pdfForts should be able to work there too. [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] d25635c1be28e0909e062d94db01a5a69638a7de 1564 1563 2016-03-28T01:19:56Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == pdfForts == This is a plugin for Dolphin & Konqueror, which provides simple GUI actions to combine or alter PDF files. Dolphin & Konqueror are applicable to '''Linux''' only. pdfForts does not appear to be packaged by many distributions. Obtain from https://github.com/sjau/pdfForts. It does require several dependencies, which typically are packaged by distributions - these will need to be installed via the package manager. Note that the install.sh script appears to have been written for KDE4 and does not put files in the correct location for KFrameworks5. see http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/build-linux-productivity-machine-kde-service-menus/. All that is required is to copy files to correct locations: <nowiki>*.sh to /usr/bin/pdfForts</nowiki> <nowiki>*.desktop to /usr/share/kservices5/ServiceMenus/pdfForts</nowiki> Following installation, open a new Dolphin window, select one or more PDF files and right-click to see what tasks are availbable from the "Actions" sub-menu. Other Linux file managers, such as Thunar, also have facilities for service menus and pdfForts should be able to work there too. [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] fbf7174360fbea7d0b048c2505a6f2f8de8183c3 0 234 1566 2016-04-13T02:33:23Z Rpeters 14 outline of availability & applicability of Calligra suite wikitext text/x-wiki Calligra is a free, office suite. Homepage https://www.calligra.org/ Its main advantage compared with LibreOffice/OpenOffice is smaller packages, which might run better on older/lower-spec hardware. Its native document format is ODF and it can import/export a range of documents as well *PDF *DOC(x) *XLS(x) *PPT(x) *various graphics formats *as well as some older formats == For General Users == The Windows version is experimental and not suitable for general users. Stable versions of the following are suitable alternatives *LibreOffice 5.x http://www.libreoffice.org/ and *OpenOffice 4.x http://www.openoffice.org/ Calligra is based on KDE desktop. Installation to other desktops is possible, requiring that approximately 80 MB of additional dependencies be downloaded It is available in most major Linux distributions - most reliable way to install it would be via the distributions software manager. *the version for KDE 4 is stable and perhaps the best choice for new users *a compilation for Frameworks 5 is available but not completely stable and not recommended for viewing/editing important documents, at this juncture **the Stage and Words modules are fairly usable **Kexi and Sheets are usable for only simple databases and spreadsheets respectively === Documentation === A disadvantage, compared with LibreOffice and OpenOffice is that Help menu might not work. Help can be accessed from a separate web page: https://docs.kde.org/index.php?language=en&package=calligra from which PDF versions can also be downloaded [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 85802e9825f5c22f4ecc3f9fcb9777e4e141b851 0 92 1567 1357 2016-04-13T03:06:37Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">'''Windows < 8''' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] bbdedb2099c47daec8bb6dd474e822ce0053a321 1568 1567 2016-04-13T03:08:14Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">'''Windows < 8''' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 89e28570595959e6dfb8cb15943ffb48df6d4d06 1569 1568 2016-04-13T03:13:03Z Rpeters 14 /* Windows */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#fff7ef; background:#black">'''Windows < 8''' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 0371af37608d41a1b33e17897babb77ef8a91d17 1570 1569 2016-04-13T03:15:21Z Rpeters 14 /* Windows */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">'''Windows < 8''' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 93bc2a400171a8ab46df0b3a3bec4dfd9e2dcf16 1571 1570 2016-04-13T03:16:48Z Rpeters 14 /* Windows */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] ecf0f8d7d973bcaa932e543a57f7ab7ba5f58756 1572 1571 2016-04-13T03:18:24Z Rpeters 14 /* Strictly for Geeks */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] b9c48b2c42e9738f387151374b05ef37e6732f0f 1585 1572 2016-05-19T06:11:39Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if'''existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is Bios '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] b8e630b8e975422af1a875ff0520e190a6b2a5c5 1586 1585 2016-05-19T06:27:54Z Rpeters 14 /* Upgrades to Windows 10 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2. During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. *GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems *this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] ac2f35f59685e0e4ad9b8af527e7d9ac67db848e 1587 1586 2016-05-19T06:31:04Z Rpeters 14 /* Upgrades to Windows 10 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] b45450fb1dc12882c5b15bfe9af2f963ff7edb48 1588 1587 2016-05-19T06:43:44Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 56352a8d2395e76df32592694e57f2b23e46cd12 1589 1588 2016-05-19T06:54:23Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === No issues when Windows is on a '''separate HDD''' === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] bfd17e831b9c41e102349d4d38efb29981353448 1604 1589 2016-07-14T02:07:27Z Rpeters 14 /* Upgrades to Windows 7 */ added caution re one Win update wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *searches of online forums produce '''zero''' reports of suitable procedures *high probability that Windows 10 would cease booting The only viable alternative appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 73cb064b63149ff918269f70f0c0969506e5058e 0 112 1573 1558 2016-04-13T15:12:54Z Gjpotts 16 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-P (Group P) This course is fully subscribed. Next course planned for 24 June to 29 July 2016. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 20 April 2016 **Session 2: Wed 27 April 2016 **Session 3: Wed 4 May 2016 **Session 4: Wed 11 May 2016 **Session 5: Wed 18 May 2016 **Session 6: Wed 25 May 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $50 for members, $70 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 17 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. **'''Please also refer to the U3A website [[courses@u3acanberra.org.au]] for additional information == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b2aebdaf5211b8fadae520ab39722328d9871703 1574 1573 2016-04-14T06:29:27Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-P (Group P) This course is fully subscribed. Next course planned for 24 June to 29 July 2016. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 20 April 2016 **Session 2: Wed 27 April 2016 **Session 3: Wed 4 May 2016 **Session 4: Wed 11 May 2016 **Session 5: Wed 18 May 2016 **Session 6: Wed 25 May 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $50 for members, $70 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 41 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au. **'''Please also refer to the U3A website [[courses@u3acanberra.org.au]] for additional information == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ae1af00730fdabd747ec0bbf9385d81c79697218 1575 1574 2016-04-14T06:32:08Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-P (Group P) This course is fully subscribed. Next course planned for 24 June to 29 July 2016. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learnt the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7 operating system, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1 with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Wednesday (see below) from 09.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Session 1: Wed 20 April 2016 **Session 2: Wed 27 April 2016 **Session 3: Wed 4 May 2016 **Session 4: Wed 11 May 2016 **Session 5: Wed 18 May 2016 **Session 6: Wed 25 May 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $50 for members, $70 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 41 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 30 May == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 32cd370e168062e6007320854a0dfb79ab881650 1590 1575 2016-06-11T04:47:42Z Gjpotts 16 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-Q (Group Q the next course is fully subscribed. More courses are planned : ABC-R for Wed 21 Sep to 26 Oct 2016, and ABC-S for Wed 2 Nov to 7 Dec 2016 (10:00am to 12:00noon). * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7/10, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7/10 operating systems, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Friday (see below) from 01.00pm-3.00pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-Q course dates:- **Session 1: Fri 24 June 2016 **Session 2: Fri 1 July 2016 **Session 3: Fri 8 July 2016 **Session 4: Fri 15 July 2016 **Session 5: Fri 22 July 2016 **Session 6: Fri 29 July 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $50 for members, $70 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 41 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 30 May == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 180716e3a3985be64d50e55577dd508a11544c42 1591 1590 2016-06-13T14:50:59Z Gjpotts 16 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-Q (Group Q the next course is fully subscribed. More courses are planned : ABC-R for Wed 21 Sep to 26 Oct 2016, and ABC-S for Wed 2 Nov to 7 Dec 2016 (10:00am to 12:00noon). * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet, Windows 7/10, and access to email''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 7/10 operating systems, and held in the Cook Community Hub (U3A) Training Room 1, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know some-one who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is overviewed in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions will be held on the relevant Friday (see below) from 01.00pm-3.00pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-Q course dates:- **Session 1: Fri 24 June 2016 **Session 2: Fri 1 July 2016 **Session 3: Fri 8 July 2016 **Session 4: Fri 15 July 2016 **Session 5: Fri 22 July 2016 **Session 6: Fri 29 July 2016 *'''Participants''': Limit 10 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': U3A, Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton St, Cook *'''Fee''': $50 for members, $70 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 41 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' First Series - Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July - ending 17 August. **'''When:''' Second Series - Held over 6 sessions on Thursday afternoons 2:00pm to 4:00pm commencing 14 July - ending 18 August. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 30 May == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 5a78cfae38a993fa9dc0820154b81b100588d7f7 0 110 1576 1320 2016-04-14T22:18:39Z Rpeters 14 added additional links for documentation; changed major version of LOo to 5 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #(no longer) sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export a range of documents as well *PDF *DOC & dotDOCX documents *XLS *PPT. === Documentation === *comprhensive editing help is available via the HELP menu within openoffice variants *LibreOffice additionally provide a conventional user guides that may be downloaded in dotODT or dotPDF format http://www.libreoffice.org/get-help/documentation/ Spreadsheet users having an extensive bank of, or needing to routinely interchange, Excel spreadsheets should be aware of the syntax and paradigm differences explained in: https://wiki.openoffice.org/wiki/Documentation/UserGuide/Migration_Guide/Calc_and_Excel Some operations behave differently in other modules, without affecting the display of documents or presentations. See https://wiki.openoffice.org/wiki/Documentation/OOoAuthors_User_Manual/Migration_Guide/General_Differences === LibreOffice === A major upgrade to version 5 was released in late 2015. *significant change in menu structures *conversion guide available from above documentation repository === Configuration === Many settings can be set/changed via: -> Tools -> Options If many documents will be interchanged with people who don't use OpenOffice then default format for saving can be set via -> Load/Save -> General *then select the document format for text, spreadsheet etc docs [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 7977165338bff6e276c259bd150a6dfc58b5ec38 1577 1576 2016-04-14T22:23:38Z Rpeters 14 removed reference to conversion guides wrt LOo 5 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == Several freely downloadable or commercially available derivatives of OpenOffice are now available: #freely downloadable #*LibreOffice http://www.libreoffice.org/ #*Apache OpenOffice http://www.openoffice.org/ #**now (again) available for Mac OSX #(no longer) sold commercially #*IBM Smartsuite All use the same document format and can import/export a range of documents as well *PDF *DOC & dotDOCX documents *XLS *PPT. === Documentation === *comprhensive editing help is available via the HELP menu within openoffice variants *LibreOffice additionally provide conventional user guides that may be downloaded in dotODT or dotPDF format http://www.libreoffice.org/get-help/documentation/ Spreadsheet users having an extensive bank of, or needing to routinely interchange, Excel spreadsheets should be aware of the syntax and paradigm differences explained in: https://wiki.openoffice.org/wiki/Documentation/UserGuide/Migration_Guide/Calc_and_Excel Some operations behave differently in other modules, without affecting the display of documents or presentations. See https://wiki.openoffice.org/wiki/Documentation/OOoAuthors_User_Manual/Migration_Guide/General_Differences === LibreOffice === A major upgrade to version 5 was released in late 2015. === Configuration === Many settings can be set/changed via: -> Tools -> Options If many documents will be interchanged with people who don't use OpenOffice then default format for saving can be set via -> Load/Save -> General *then select the document format for text, spreadsheet etc docs [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] d1a74e497bfae113bea1c3b5be799a6d22212dbf 0 165 1578 1314 2016-04-14T22:32:58Z Rpeters 14 /* Failure to Print */added work-around for landscape pages wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers may not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices scan via USB interface only and not via network. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 172e54e8336c26cb9b52831b53c773e4cbeb79eb 1579 1578 2016-04-14T22:33:24Z Rpeters 14 /* Failure to Print */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices scan via USB interface only and not via network. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 3f371a8d7b7b7efe93e24f53dab75a9822bd2385 0 4 1580 1397 2016-04-18T05:25:18Z Gjpotts 16 /* Training Courses for 2014 */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 30/06/2015''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG has agreed with U3A, to use U3A's training facility in Cook. * The Dell machines, with Windows7, are now located at Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2016 == ''Item Date: 10/04/2016''<br/> * The 2016 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact 1800 728 853 Eileen Dunstone (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Secretary [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is a lot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 24/2/2014''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to Karen (PCUG Office Manager)[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 6d551193e57d4d3cf26ba7b45da8cf118902e812 1581 1580 2016-04-18T05:30:20Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 30/06/2015''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG has agreed with U3A, to use U3A's training facility in Cook. * The Dell machines, with Windows7, are now located at Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2016 == ''Item Date: 10/04/2016''<br/> * The 2016 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact 1800 728 853 Eileen Dunstone (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Secretary [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is a lot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 18/04/2016''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or Office Manager [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 68d225ff3e71df3da9e3588f9bbc2f27c2d2d0eb 1582 1581 2016-04-18T05:33:06Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 30/06/2015''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG has agreed with U3A, to use U3A's training facility in Cook. * The Dell machines, with Windows7, are now located at Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2016 == ''Item Date: 10/04/2016''<br/> * The 2016 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact 1800 728 853 Eileen Dunstone (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Secretary [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is a lot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 18/04/2016''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 18/04/2016''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still much in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Main Monthly Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia, and overseas. * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 54 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] f01e0b6d97ad010b7eb4d4ef12d595c827a2ff4c 1583 1582 2016-04-18T13:28:30Z Gjpotts 16 /* PCUG on Facebook */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 30/06/2015''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG has agreed with U3A, to use U3A's training facility in Cook. * The Dell machines, with Windows7, are now located at Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2016 == ''Item Date: 10/04/2016''<br/> * The 2016 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact 1800 728 853 Eileen Dunstone (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Secretary [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is a lot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 18/04/2016''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 18/04/2016''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still much in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Main Monthly Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 18/04/2016'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia - (Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association - ASCCA), and overseas (Association of Personal Computer User Groups - APCUG). * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 79 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project) == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 08450c6d73d50af2985bb17bc5823026157468ed 1584 1583 2016-04-18T13:32:28Z Gjpotts 16 /* TIO */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 30/06/2015''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG has agreed with U3A, to use U3A's training facility in Cook. * The Dell machines, with Windows7, are now located at Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2016 == ''Item Date: 10/04/2016''<br/> * The 2016 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, e/o are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact 1800 728 853 Eileen Dunstone (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Secretary [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is a lot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 18/04/2016''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 18/04/2016''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still much in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Main Monthly Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 18/04/2016'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia - (Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association - ASCCA), and overseas (Association of Personal Computer User Groups - APCUG). * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 79 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project). TIP continues to manager members' username accounts, store their e-mail on a server, and provide an area for a website, and files. == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] d436b9cc9bf568efcb99958897afd63371ae70c7 0 223 1592 1406 2016-06-22T06:21:06Z Rpeters 14 added sub-sections for host-less modems and pocket routers wikitext text/x-wiki == Host-less Modem == These are a newer style of USB 3G/4G dongle. See http://ofmodemsandmen.com/hostless.html Key features include: *auto-connect when powered up **can subsequently be connected/re-connected via web interface *appear as an Ethernet device, having own IP address The above features can simplify connecting to Linux. See above page for a list of devices. == mini Router == Can also include rechargeable battery and be referred to as "pocket router" == IPFire == IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. === Controlling the Dongle === This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 6a59086a8f7265220df83505c65a48795457ba29 1593 1592 2016-06-22T06:29:52Z Rpeters 14 /* mini Router */basic description wikitext text/x-wiki == Host-less Modem == These are a newer style of USB 3G/4G dongle. See http://ofmodemsandmen.com/hostless.html Key features include: *auto-connect when powered up **can subsequently be connected/re-connected via web interface *appear as an Ethernet device, having own IP address The above features can simplify connecting to Linux. See above page for a list of devices. == mini Router == Can also include rechargeable battery and be referred to as "pocket router" Tested examples include: *TP-Link 703N and MR-3020 *GL-inet 6416 The last has more RAM & flash memory as well as coming with customised openWRT pre-installed. openWRT is supported, for user installation on the others All can be used as a "standby" if ADSL/VDSL is out of service *hint - reset the mini-routers LAN IP to the same as the ADSL/VDSL modem/router **the two can then be swapped by replugging the LAN-side ethernet cable, without the need to change any LAN settings == IPFire == IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. === Controlling the Dongle === This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 47184fd3d3fc2d04f35e38df0b4112b2e01b308d 1594 1593 2016-06-22T06:31:53Z Rpeters 14 /* mini Router */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Host-less Modem == These are a newer style of USB 3G/4G dongle. See http://ofmodemsandmen.com/hostless.html Key features include: *auto-connect when powered up **can subsequently be connected/re-connected via web interface *appear as an Ethernet device, having own IP address The above features can simplify connecting to Linux. See above page for a list of devices. == mini Router == Can also include rechargeable battery and be referred to as "pocket router" Tested examples include: *TP-Link 703N and MR-3020 *GL-inet 6416 The last has more RAM & flash memory as well as coming with customised openWRT pre-installed. openWRT is supported, for user installation on the others. All must be purchased online, from China. All can be used as a "standby" if ADSL/VDSL is out of service *hint - reset the mini-routers LAN IP to the same as the ADSL/VDSL modem/router **the two can then be swapped by replugging the LAN-side ethernet cable, without the need to change any LAN settings == IPFire == IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. === Controlling the Dongle === This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] eaacd5604ba01fdaec41ba9e7ea565a8fa6397dd 1595 1594 2016-06-22T06:39:34Z Rpeters 14 /* IPFire */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Host-less Modem == These are a newer style of USB 3G/4G dongle. See http://ofmodemsandmen.com/hostless.html Key features include: *auto-connect when powered up **can subsequently be connected/re-connected via web interface *appear as an Ethernet device, having own IP address The above features can simplify connecting to Linux. See above page for a list of devices. == mini Router == Can also include rechargeable battery and be referred to as "pocket router" Tested examples include: *TP-Link 703N and MR-3020 *GL-inet 6416 The last has more RAM & flash memory as well as coming with customised openWRT pre-installed. openWRT is supported, for user installation on the others. All must be purchased online, from China. All can be used as a "standby" if ADSL/VDSL is out of service *hint - reset the mini-routers LAN IP to the same as the ADSL/VDSL modem/router **the two can then be swapped by replugging the LAN-side ethernet cable, without the need to change any LAN settings == IPFire == May be used with USB 3G/4G dongles as below. Most should work via mini-router. Direct USB connection would rely on specific kernel modules being available for the modem chipset. This could be checked by plugging the device to any desktop or laptop running Linux and isolated from LAN. Run "lsmod" before and after, to spot relevant modules. === via mini-Router === This is the simplest procedure, requiring no changes to RED settings from those used with routine ADSL/VDSL device. See procedures above. == Direct USB Connection == IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. === Controlling the Dongle === This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 0255fd38b5f3f7474f575d54f08eae3fd3e4ab9c 1596 1595 2016-06-22T06:40:52Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Host-less Modem == These are a newer style of USB 3G/4G dongle. See http://ofmodemsandmen.com/hostless.html Key features include: *auto-connect when powered up **can subsequently be connected/re-connected via web interface *appear as an Ethernet device, having own IP address The above features can simplify connecting to Linux. See above page for a list of devices. == mini Router == Can also include rechargeable battery and be referred to as "pocket router" Tested examples include: *TP-Link 703N and MR-3020 *GL-inet 6416 The last has more RAM & flash memory as well as coming with customised openWRT pre-installed. openWRT is supported, for user installation on the others. All must be purchased online, from China. All can be used as a "standby" if ADSL/VDSL is out of service *hint - reset the mini-routers LAN IP to the same as the ADSL/VDSL modem/router **the two can then be swapped by replugging the LAN-side ethernet cable, without the need to change any LAN settings == IPFire == May be used with USB 3G/4G dongles as below. Most should work via mini-router. Direct USB connection would rely on specific kernel modules being available for the modem chipset. This could be checked by plugging the device to any desktop or laptop running Linux and isolated from LAN. Run "lsmod" before and after, to spot relevant modules. === via mini-Router === This is the simplest procedure, requiring no changes to RED settings from those used with routine ADSL/VDSL device. See procedures above. === Direct USB Connection === IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. === Controlling the Dongle === This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] d624c01589f4d0a6c2de7be48b8446a10547065a 1597 1596 2016-06-22T06:41:34Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == Host-less Modem == These are a newer style of USB 3G/4G dongle. See http://ofmodemsandmen.com/hostless.html Key features include: *auto-connect when powered up **can subsequently be connected/re-connected via web interface *appear as an Ethernet device, having own IP address The above features can simplify connecting to Linux. See above page for a list of devices. == mini Router == Can also include rechargeable battery and be referred to as "pocket router" Tested examples include: *TP-Link 703N and MR-3020 *GL-inet 6416 The last has more RAM & flash memory as well as coming with customised openWRT pre-installed. openWRT is supported, for user installation on the others. All must be purchased online, from China. All can be used as a "standby" if ADSL/VDSL is out of service *hint - reset the mini-routers LAN IP to the same as the ADSL/VDSL modem/router **the two can then be swapped by replugging the LAN-side ethernet cable, without the need to change any LAN settings == IPFire == May be used with USB 3G/4G dongles as below. Most should work via mini-router. Direct USB connection would rely on specific kernel modules being available for the modem chipset. This could be checked by plugging the device to any desktop or laptop running Linux and isolated from LAN. Run "lsmod" before and after, to spot relevant modules. === via mini-Router === This is the simplest procedure, requiring no changes to RED settings from those used with routine ADSL/VDSL device. See procedures above. === Direct USB Connection === IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. == Controlling the Dongle == This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 2e29f18b5f8911569331bac74c100227c12c2b7f 1605 1597 2016-07-14T02:12:00Z Rpeters 14 /* Host-less Modem */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Host-less Modem == These are a newer style of USB 3G/4G dongle. See http://ofmodemsandmen.com/hostless.html Key features include: *auto-connect when powered up **can subsequently be connected/re-connected via web interface *appear as an Ethernet device, having own IP address The above features can simplify connecting to Linux. See above link for a list of devices. == mini Router == Can also include rechargeable battery and be referred to as "pocket router" Tested examples include: *TP-Link 703N and MR-3020 *GL-inet 6416 The last has more RAM & flash memory as well as coming with customised openWRT pre-installed. openWRT is supported, for user installation on the others. All must be purchased online, from China. All can be used as a "standby" if ADSL/VDSL is out of service *hint - reset the mini-routers LAN IP to the same as the ADSL/VDSL modem/router **the two can then be swapped by replugging the LAN-side ethernet cable, without the need to change any LAN settings == IPFire == May be used with USB 3G/4G dongles as below. Most should work via mini-router. Direct USB connection would rely on specific kernel modules being available for the modem chipset. This could be checked by plugging the device to any desktop or laptop running Linux and isolated from LAN. Run "lsmod" before and after, to spot relevant modules. === via mini-Router === This is the simplest procedure, requiring no changes to RED settings from those used with routine ADSL/VDSL device. See procedures above. === Direct USB Connection === IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. == Controlling the Dongle == This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] bf2bd3e965dcb6b5433035d5611e700b5456712f 1606 1605 2016-07-14T02:16:39Z Rpeters 14 /* Host-less Modem */ added note re firewalls on user computer wikitext text/x-wiki == Host-less Modem == These are a newer style of USB 3G/4G dongle. See http://ofmodemsandmen.com/hostless.html Key features include: *auto-connect when powered up **can subsequently be connected/re-connected via web interface *appear as an Ethernet device, having own IP address The above features can simplify connecting to Linux. See above link for a list of devices. An firewall on a computer that is connected to the wired ethernet port of the router can prevent the web interface of the host-less modem being seen. Provided that the router has an adequate firewall, as openWRT does, then the firewall of the user computer could be temporarily disabled. Wireless devices can generally see the host-less modem's GUI. == mini Router == Can also include rechargeable battery and be referred to as "pocket router" Tested examples include: *TP-Link 703N and MR-3020 *GL-inet 6416 The last has more RAM & flash memory as well as coming with customised openWRT pre-installed. openWRT is supported, for user installation on the others. All must be purchased online, from China. All can be used as a "standby" if ADSL/VDSL is out of service *hint - reset the mini-routers LAN IP to the same as the ADSL/VDSL modem/router **the two can then be swapped by replugging the LAN-side ethernet cable, without the need to change any LAN settings == IPFire == May be used with USB 3G/4G dongles as below. Most should work via mini-router. Direct USB connection would rely on specific kernel modules being available for the modem chipset. This could be checked by plugging the device to any desktop or laptop running Linux and isolated from LAN. Run "lsmod" before and after, to spot relevant modules. === via mini-Router === This is the simplest procedure, requiring no changes to RED settings from those used with routine ADSL/VDSL device. See procedures above. === Direct USB Connection === IPFire wiki contains no specific guidelines. The following work with Telstra 4G and probably similar products from other vendors. *involves several config changes from usual RED zone device and Network Addresses **Wireless broadband is likely to be an (expensive) contingency WAN **one option would be to use a second, differently configured installation to a different SD card that would be used in a RPi or BPi, during contingency operation #the USB dongle/SIM first needs to be activated via direct connection to a PC/Tablet #*defaults to "automatic connection to WAN on power-up" #**retain (can be manually disconnected/reconnected later to conserve quota) #*NB Linux does '''not''' firewall USB dongles, so best to use an expendable installation of Linux #**situation with Win8 indeterminate #note "hardwired" network address eg 192.168.0 displayed from "Information" tab of m.home page #*this will be the unchangeable RED address on IPFire and other zone addresses on IPFire must have different network addresses eg 192.168.1 for GREEN #click on "Disconnect" button and remove dongle #plug USB Broadband dongle to USB hub on IPFire system #*main USB or Ethernet RED device can remain physically plugged/connected #run SETUP, via SSH shell or Monitor & keyboard #from "Network -> Drivers & Card Assignments" deselect existing RED #select USB dongle as RED eg ZTE for Telstra dongles #from "Network -> Addresses -> RED" select DHCP #exit SETUP #SHUTDOWN -> REBOOT IPFire system #Status should be: #*(IPFire home page) RED interface gets IP address eg 192.168.0.183 #*(IPFire home page) Gateway allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*(IPFire home page) DNS allocated eg 192.168.0.1 #*Dongle LED indicates "connected to WAN" If Internet access is not achieved then it might be necessary to revisit IPFire SETUP and allocate the above Gateway and DNS addresses staticly via "Network -> DNS & Gateway Settings" Note that "Dialup" settings that are normally used with xDSL connections are not used with the broadband dongle, but should be retained, if they will later be used with a DSL device. == Controlling the Dongle == This will be vendor specific. In the case of Telstra 4G, the following web pages (in the dongle) should be accessible from a computer/tablet on the GREEN zone: http://m.home or http://192.168.0.1/index.html#home *clicking the "Disconnect/Connect" buttons controls the WAN **these options no longer available from IPFire home page *clicking the button at the bottom of m.home page should bring up: **https://m.telstra.com/, which displays unused quota etc --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 10:05, 8 August 2015 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b63116f529f4051ffa1a55ac7846c5ad4ab58b04 0 222 1598 1405 2016-07-07T23:57:39Z Rpeters 14 added place-marker for Windows Networking wikitext text/x-wiki *[[Windows_Network]] *[[Wireless Broadband]] fe40e62cd65f934e1444647fddd0942c0c9312b5 0 235 1599 2016-07-07T23:59:23Z Rpeters 14 outline only for Samba client & server wikitext text/x-wiki == Samba Client == as also used by Chromebooks ? == Samba Server == 64c364641d54f41017f7aa668160dd2214aaaec9 0 215 1600 1379 2016-07-12T01:47:00Z Rpeters 14 added SSD page wikitext text/x-wiki * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[SSD_Linux]] 21dc4eca58b22abcf662e95f5d779648a41c6ea4 0 236 1601 2016-07-12T02:05:02Z Rpeters 14 outline of cloning, management software and TRIM command wikitext text/x-wiki == Cloning == The data migration tool provided by most SSD manufacturers runs only under Windows. If a machine does not have Windows, then a generic tool, such as Clonezilla would need to be used. == Management == SSD require a manufacturer specific tool for some operations, notably secure erase. Only the following brands are known to provide a software tool which runs under Linux *ARC *Micron == TRIM == TRIM is a standard (S)ATA command. Most implementations of Linux do not invoke TRIM automatically in background. It needs to be run manually on a weekly or longer basis, depending on rate at which the SSD is written. <nowiki>#trim -v /dev/sd(x) </nowiki> gives useful information If only a small percentage of the drive is trimmed, then the TRIM interval might be extended ? Manufacturer's data sheets often do not state whether or not TRIM is supported. It is known to work with the following brands under Linux *ARC 5e1e783582dc689f062ef31dcdd566ea1fa1b761 1602 1601 2016-07-12T02:35:35Z Rpeters 14 added change from CFQ wikitext text/x-wiki == Cloning == The data migration tool provided by most SSD manufacturers runs only under Windows. If a machine does not have Windows, then a generic tool, such as Clonezilla would need to be used. == I/O Scheduler == Desktop oriented distributions typically have this set to CFQ - which is suited to conventional HDD. SSD have greater parallelism and should benefit from setting to "noop" or "deadline". The exact procedure for this low-level change in kernel settings varies with distribution. == Management == SSD require a manufacturer specific tool for some operations, notably secure erase. Only the following brands are known to provide a software tool which runs under Linux *ARC *Micron == TRIM == TRIM is a standard (S)ATA command. Most implementations of Linux do not invoke TRIM automatically in background. It needs to be run manually on a weekly or longer basis, depending on rate at which the SSD is written. <nowiki>#trim -v /dev/sd(x) </nowiki> gives useful information If only a small percentage of the drive is trimmed, then the TRIM interval might be extended ? Manufacturer's data sheets often do not state whether or not TRIM is supported. It is known to work with the following brands under Linux *ARC --[[Category:Technical Info]] f737f0785739ef755d8e59a19365d8dc5c28aa3e 0 114 1603 1321 2016-07-12T03:09:02Z Rpeters 14 updated for different form factors; added General User section, now that SSD are mainstream wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == === Linux Users === Although all models of SSD should work with Linux some do not have Linux software tools available to optimise the drive. See: [[SSD_Linux]] == Getting Technical == === Disk Controller === Most SSD have SATA III (6 Gb/s) Interface. This equates to approx 750 MB/s, that is 50% more than contemporary SSD can deliver. Older mainboards having only SATA II controllers generally work, but will deliver a little less than the advertised speed SSD are manufuctured in three different form factors: *2.5" SATA *mSATA *M 2 (previously NGFF) All have different connectors and are not directly interchangeable *adapters to convert mSATA or M 2 to SATA interface are available === Support for TRIM === SSD require periodic use of the TRIM command *if an SSD reports "disk full" and deleting files fails to create usable space then that is an indication that TRIM is either not implemented or not supported [[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]17:35, 5 September 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] ad33d22280aa617fba7b70dbdf2aafc211cc8713 0 7 1607 1565 2016-08-12T05:02:40Z Akabaila 11 /* Image and Photo Editing */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] * ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 14712e76d317c773a6dfe7f4f4a54b1132fc27da 1608 1607 2016-08-12T05:04:26Z Akabaila 11 /* General */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 56309a8b3ac93ba3fa04b2683bd5eac3ff90e680 1609 1608 2016-08-12T05:36:25Z Akabaila 11 /* Hardware */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Desk-Top Computers ==== *[[Old Second Hand PCs]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] a45986824bab3f034a2697b861675b1d062710db 1611 1609 2016-08-13T00:29:55Z Akabaila 11 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Desk-Top Computers ==== *[[HP Pro Desk 400 GI]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] e738fd5397f8cf1ffc413f45d790741714270f44 1612 1611 2016-08-13T00:39:21Z Akabaila 11 /* Desk-Top Computers */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Desk-Top Computers ==== *[[Old Second-Hand PCs"]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] eb89259988cb6d5bdbf7c4db48de99637ffa241d 1613 1612 2016-08-13T00:43:56Z Akabaila 11 /* Hardware */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Desk-Top Computers ==== *[[HP ProDesk 400 G]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] afb006a498fd72af2683e03d3ee83d7b15b3c2a1 1615 1613 2016-08-13T01:08:23Z Akabaila 11 /* Desk-Top Computers */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Desk-Top Computers ==== *[[HP ProDesk 400 G1]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] bb3c518dfdea7783e43cffddb1399c6e32b48a58 0 237 1610 2016-08-12T06:16:00Z Akabaila 11 Created page with "=== Old Second Hand Pc's === ==== My needs ==== First, what is and why does this section exist. Well, I am old and many PC users are old. That is a good enough reason for th..." wikitext text/x-wiki === Old Second Hand Pc's === ==== My needs ==== First, what is and why does this section exist. Well, I am old and many PC users are old. That is a good enough reason for this section to come to life. I have recently purchased an old second-hand computer through an Australian retailer on the internet. It was sold as an "ex-gov" desktop Personal Computer, with MS Windows installed and no other operating systems on it. Well, I like MS and I like MS Windows, but I also like other Operating Systems. In particular, I have used Linux in its various versions over the last few years and it has given me great service. So I wish to have a multi-boot desktop computer for my home use. ==== My "new desktop computer" ==== The internet retailer advertised and "ex-gov" HP400 PC with MS Windows pre-installed". More about the computer: it is "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC", as BIOS Setup manual reports. Having booted a live Linux disk, and started a "gparted" program I had look at the existing partitions of the disk. I found that the HDD disk is about 500 GiB size and that most of it is taken by a Windows partition, so using gparted I shrunk it down to make room for two Linux OS's and the swap partition. a9cb82d26928186d71a730f0a00fa9b89de1ab96 0 238 1614 2016-08-13T01:02:38Z Akabaila 11 Created page with "This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had pre-i..." wikitext text/x-wiki This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had pre-installed MS Windows OS. The BIOS setup manual gives the full name of this computer as "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC". When purchased, it had a fully installed and working MS Windows OS. [[Cathegory:Technical Info]] c2a9272e0330b6d6a2bf253411dbb67df722ea3a 0 239 1616 2016-08-13T01:13:48Z Akabaila 11 HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC wikitext text/x-wiki This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had a pre-installed MS Windows OS. The BIOS setup manual gives the full name of this computer as "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC". When purchased, it had a fully installed and working MS Windows OS. b1f096feb8ab63b9df38903ebf18d87ac2eb9d99 1617 1616 2016-08-13T01:23:41Z Akabaila 11 wikitext text/x-wiki === HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC === This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had a pre-installed MS Windows OS. The BIOS setup manual gives the full name of this computer as "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC". When purchased, it had a fully installed and working MS Windows OS. 3bab7c0e2a81976b1c5da66c03314c2dba4facbc 1618 1617 2016-08-13T01:26:46Z Akabaila 11 /* HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC */ wikitext text/x-wiki === HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC === This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had a pre-installed MS Windows OS. The BIOS setup manual gives the full name of this computer as "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC". When purchased, it had a fully installed and working MS Windows OS. [[Category:Technical Info]] 16a7ef53c88cbc8a2f435ad6fc1e0c445da95587 1619 1618 2016-08-13T03:12:40Z Akabaila 11 /* HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==== This Page is "under construction" ==== === HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC === == Introduction == This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had a pre-installed MS Windows OS. The BIOS setup manual gives the full name of this computer as "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC". When purchased, it had a fully installed and working MS Windows OS. This computer name is rather long, so we shall refer it as HP400 in this discussion. Many people use MS OS (Operating System). I prefer and use Linux OS. It is a question of preferences and it is futile to argue about preferences. In the following text, the references to computer operations will be for Linux OS unless specifically MS Windows OS is mentioned. == HP400 Components == == CPU == The comprehensive and simple way to report it is with the CLI (Command Line Interface). The command to examine and report the CPU details is lscpu. Generally, "ls" is the command for listing the file system. The following list shows inter alia that my user-name on my HP400 computer is "ak". The command lscpu was applied in a console window that was opened on the desktop. ak@HP400:~$ sudo lscpu Architecture: x86_64 CPU op-mode(s): 32-bit, 64-bit Byte Order: Little Endian CPU(s): 4 On-line CPU(s) list: 0-3 Thread(s) per core: 2 Core(s) per socket: 2 Socket(s): 1 NUMA node(s): 1 Vendor ID: GenuineIntel CPU family: 6 Model: 60 Model name: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-4160 CPU @ 3.60GHz Stepping: 3 CPU MHz: 858.093 CPU max MHz: 3600.0000 CPU min MHz: 800.0000 BogoMIPS: 7183.26 Virtualisation: VT-x L1d cache: 32K L1i cache: 32K L2 cache: 256K L3 cache: 3072K NUMA node0 CPU(s): 0-3 Flags: fpu vme de pse tsc msr pae mce cx8 apic sep mtrr pge mca cmov pat pse36 clflush dts acpi mmx fxsr sse sse2 ss ht tm pbe syscall nx pdpe1gb rdtscp lm constant_tsc arch_perfmon pebs bts rep_good nopl xtopology nonstop_tsc aperfmperf eagerfpu pni pclmulqdq dtes64 monitor ds_cpl vmx est tm2 ssse3 sdbg fma cx16 xtpr pdcm pcid sse4_1 sse4_2 movbe popcnt tsc_deadline_timer aes xsave avx f16c rdrand lahf_lm abm epb tpr_shadow vnmi flexpriority ept vpid fsgsbase tsc_adjust bmi1 avx2 smep bmi2 erms invpcid xsaveopt dtherm arat pln pts ak@HP400:~$ == HDD == Hard disk drive capacity is 500 GB. ==== This Page is "under construction" ==== [[Category:Technical Info]] fe56779a1e2524518be8e34b211e2bb0509a2707 1621 1619 2016-08-13T11:11:40Z Akabaila 11 /* HDD */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==== This Page is "under construction" ==== === HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC === == Introduction == This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had a pre-installed MS Windows OS. The BIOS setup manual gives the full name of this computer as "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC". When purchased, it had a fully installed and working MS Windows OS. This computer name is rather long, so we shall refer it as HP400 in this discussion. Many people use MS OS (Operating System). I prefer and use Linux OS. It is a question of preferences and it is futile to argue about preferences. In the following text, the references to computer operations will be for Linux OS unless specifically MS Windows OS is mentioned. == HP400 Components == == CPU == The comprehensive and simple way to report it is with the CLI (Command Line Interface). The command to examine and report the CPU details is lscpu. Generally, "ls" is the command for listing the file system. The following list shows inter alia that my user-name on my HP400 computer is "ak". The command lscpu was applied in a console window that was opened on the desktop. ak@HP400:~$ sudo lscpu Architecture: x86_64 CPU op-mode(s): 32-bit, 64-bit Byte Order: Little Endian CPU(s): 4 On-line CPU(s) list: 0-3 Thread(s) per core: 2 Core(s) per socket: 2 Socket(s): 1 NUMA node(s): 1 Vendor ID: GenuineIntel CPU family: 6 Model: 60 Model name: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-4160 CPU @ 3.60GHz Stepping: 3 CPU MHz: 858.093 CPU max MHz: 3600.0000 CPU min MHz: 800.0000 BogoMIPS: 7183.26 Virtualisation: VT-x L1d cache: 32K L1i cache: 32K L2 cache: 256K L3 cache: 3072K NUMA node0 CPU(s): 0-3 Flags: fpu vme de pse tsc msr pae mce cx8 apic sep mtrr pge mca cmov pat pse36 clflush dts acpi mmx fxsr sse sse2 ss ht tm pbe syscall nx pdpe1gb rdtscp lm constant_tsc arch_perfmon pebs bts rep_good nopl xtopology nonstop_tsc aperfmperf eagerfpu pni pclmulqdq dtes64 monitor ds_cpl vmx est tm2 ssse3 sdbg fma cx16 xtpr pdcm pcid sse4_1 sse4_2 movbe popcnt tsc_deadline_timer aes xsave avx f16c rdrand lahf_lm abm epb tpr_shadow vnmi flexpriority ept vpid fsgsbase tsc_adjust bmi1 avx2 smep bmi2 erms invpcid xsaveopt dtherm arat pln pts ak@HP400:~$ == HDD == Hard disk drive capacity is 500 GB. [[File:Gparted_HP400_hdd_image.jpeg]] ==== This Page is "under construction" ==== [[Category:Technical Info]] 33dd537fe889f1ba5779c9fa668ddd600d1e913d 1622 1621 2016-08-13T11:18:31Z Akabaila 11 /* HDD */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==== This Page is "under construction" ==== === HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC === == Introduction == This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had a pre-installed MS Windows OS. The BIOS setup manual gives the full name of this computer as "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC". When purchased, it had a fully installed and working MS Windows OS. This computer name is rather long, so we shall refer it as HP400 in this discussion. Many people use MS OS (Operating System). I prefer and use Linux OS. It is a question of preferences and it is futile to argue about preferences. In the following text, the references to computer operations will be for Linux OS unless specifically MS Windows OS is mentioned. == HP400 Components == == CPU == The comprehensive and simple way to report it is with the CLI (Command Line Interface). The command to examine and report the CPU details is lscpu. Generally, "ls" is the command for listing the file system. The following list shows inter alia that my user-name on my HP400 computer is "ak". The command lscpu was applied in a console window that was opened on the desktop. ak@HP400:~$ sudo lscpu Architecture: x86_64 CPU op-mode(s): 32-bit, 64-bit Byte Order: Little Endian CPU(s): 4 On-line CPU(s) list: 0-3 Thread(s) per core: 2 Core(s) per socket: 2 Socket(s): 1 NUMA node(s): 1 Vendor ID: GenuineIntel CPU family: 6 Model: 60 Model name: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-4160 CPU @ 3.60GHz Stepping: 3 CPU MHz: 858.093 CPU max MHz: 3600.0000 CPU min MHz: 800.0000 BogoMIPS: 7183.26 Virtualisation: VT-x L1d cache: 32K L1i cache: 32K L2 cache: 256K L3 cache: 3072K NUMA node0 CPU(s): 0-3 Flags: fpu vme de pse tsc msr pae mce cx8 apic sep mtrr pge mca cmov pat pse36 clflush dts acpi mmx fxsr sse sse2 ss ht tm pbe syscall nx pdpe1gb rdtscp lm constant_tsc arch_perfmon pebs bts rep_good nopl xtopology nonstop_tsc aperfmperf eagerfpu pni pclmulqdq dtes64 monitor ds_cpl vmx est tm2 ssse3 sdbg fma cx16 xtpr pdcm pcid sse4_1 sse4_2 movbe popcnt tsc_deadline_timer aes xsave avx f16c rdrand lahf_lm abm epb tpr_shadow vnmi flexpriority ept vpid fsgsbase tsc_adjust bmi1 avx2 smep bmi2 erms invpcid xsaveopt dtherm arat pln pts ak@HP400:~$ == HDD == Hard disk drive capacity is 500 GB. The following image shows the HP400 hdd after it has been repartitioned. I am happy that the upload of this file went smoothly and will describe all parts of it and then the hdd as it looked before partitioning. I now call it quits and will go to bed... [[File:Gparted_HP400_hdd_image.jpeg]] ==== This Page is "under construction" ==== [[Category:Technical Info]] 798ad32bae2c0534eeb2db3df7ff0036a58b288e 1623 1622 2016-08-13T11:22:11Z Akabaila 11 /* CPU */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==== This Page is "under construction" ==== === HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC === == Introduction == This is a second-hand, computer, formerly Australian Government owned. It was purchased from an Australian reseller who advertised it on their internet web-site. It had a pre-installed MS Windows OS. The BIOS setup manual gives the full name of this computer as "HP ProDesk 400 G1 Small Form Factor Business PC". When purchased, it had a fully installed and working MS Windows OS. This computer name is rather long, so we shall refer it as HP400 in this discussion. Many people use MS OS (Operating System). I prefer and use Linux OS. It is a question of preferences and it is futile to argue about preferences. In the following text, the references to computer operations will be for Linux OS unless specifically MS Windows OS is mentioned. == HP400 Components == == CPU == The comprehensive and simple way to report it is with the CLI (Command Line Interface). The command to examine and report the CPU details is lscpu. Generally, "ls" is the command for listing the file system. The following list shows inter alia that my user-name on my HP400 computer is "ak". The command lscpu was applied in a console window that was opened on the desktop. ak@HP400:~$ sudo lscpu Architecture: x86_64 CPU op-mode(s): 32-bit, 64-bit Byte Order: Little Endian CPU(s): 4 On-line CPU(s) list: 0-3 Thread(s) per core: 2 Core(s) per socket: 2 Socket(s): 1 NUMA node(s): 1 Vendor ID: GenuineIntel CPU family: 6 Model: 60 Model name: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-4160 CPU @ 3.60GHz Stepping: 3 CPU MHz: 858.093 CPU max MHz: 3600.0000 CPU min MHz: 800.0000 BogoMIPS: 7183.26 Virtualisation: VT-x L1d cache: 32K L1i cache: 32K L2 cache: 256K L3 cache: 3072K NUMA node0 CPU(s): 0-3 Flags: fpu vme de pse tsc msr pae mce cx8 apic sep mtrr pge mca cmov pat pse36 clflush dts acpi mmx fxsr sse sse2 ss ht tm pbe syscall nx pdpe1gb rdtscp lm constant_tsc arch_perfmon pebs bts rep_good nopl xtopology nonstop_tsc aperfmperf eagerfpu pni pclmulqdq dtes64 monitor ds_cpl vmx est tm2 ssse3 sdbg fma cx16 xtpr pdcm pcid sse4_1 sse4_2 movbe popcnt tsc_deadline_timer aes xsave avx f16c rdrand lahf_lm abm epb tpr_shadow vnmi flexpriority ept vpid fsgsbase tsc_adjust bmi1 avx2 smep bmi2 erms invpcid xsaveopt dtherm arat pln pts ak@HP400:~$ == HDD == Hard disk drive capacity is 500 GB. The following image shows the HP400 hdd after it has been repartitioned. I am happy that the upload of this file went smoothly and will describe all parts of it and then the hdd as it looked before partitioning. I now call it quits and will go to bed... [[File:Gparted_HP400_hdd_image.jpeg]] ==== This Page is "under construction" ==== [[Category:Technical Info]] b15b5591d0e91ec4e0013691d2099ac9f6e6b544 6 240 1620 2016-08-13T11:04:40Z Akabaila 11 gparted image of HP400 HDD wikitext text/x-wiki gparted image of HP400 HDD 630d268af5787284cfd813039777c426b3bb43c5 0 92 1624 1604 2016-09-11T22:41:21Z Rpeters 14 amended General Users reflecting report to Linux SIG wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 640787af381cd59db68159b98ca366282044eefe 1625 1624 2016-09-11T23:00:58Z Rpeters 14 added section New Windows 10 Computers to Getting Technical wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works without this step, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Linux only is bootable #amend Grub 2 boot order to place Windows '''second''' #*either Linux or Windows should now boot, as selected YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 9b583c93a16e90ea269c7a72cc3afe2ab06d0126 1626 1625 2016-09-12T08:06:39Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux Mint 18 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works without this step, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Linux only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 6638ac188941e992bc372b37111a47033b20ed39 1627 1626 2016-09-12T21:50:06Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux Mint 18 */corrected first boot situation wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the LInux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 35fc7028903f13273df45f6c0122898c8df3741e 1628 1627 2016-09-12T22:09:22Z Rpeters 14 /* Upgrades to Windows 10 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === ==== Computers having UEFI Firmware ==== typically home computers that came with Windows 8.x or generic mainboards of the same era *be aware that business-oriented computers of the same hardware era were often installed with Windows 7, but fall into this category *many are currently (2016) being refurbished and re-sold by major retailers Upgrade to this category of hardware is proving to be the most troublesome Be aware that UEFI & BIOS firmware have many similar screens & settings. Check for this hardware as follows: #invoke UEFI settings, at boot time #if the opening UEFI page contains reference to a "UEFI version number" then the computer has UEFI firmware and falls into this category ==== Computers having BIOS Firmware ==== This upgrade generally proceeds without problems. The following specific combination of factors has been tested: '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the Linux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 1c552d52bd22fe6f930de4218df772668b3d0045 1629 1628 2016-09-12T22:13:28Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === ==== Computers having UEFI Firmware ==== typically home computers that came with Windows 8.x or generic mainboards of the same era *be aware that business-oriented computers of the same hardware era were often installed with Windows 7, but fall into this category *many are currently (2016) being refurbished and re-sold by major retailers Upgrade to this category of hardware is proving to be the most troublesome Be aware that UEFI & BIOS firmware have many similar screens & settings. Check for this hardware as follows: #invoke UEFI settings, at boot time #if the opening UEFI page contains reference to a "UEFI version number" then the computer has UEFI firmware and falls into this category ==== <span style="color:#005600; background:#black">Computers having BIOS Firmware ==== This upgrade generally proceeds without problems. The following specific combination of factors has been tested: '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the Linux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] eabcacc7569b1392d52e154049d4da80b3f27d31 1649 1629 2016-11-04T22:33:02Z Rpeters 14 /* New Windows 10 Computers */added external links wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ Here are two links to successful procedures for UEFI & BIOS computers. Although oriented to Ubuntu, analogous steps should work with other Linux: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside.html http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside_8.html Win 10 will probably need to be shrunk: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-shrink-windows-10-to-make-space.html ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === ==== Computers having UEFI Firmware ==== typically home computers that came with Windows 8.x or generic mainboards of the same era *be aware that business-oriented computers of the same hardware era were often installed with Windows 7, but fall into this category *many are currently (2016) being refurbished and re-sold by major retailers Upgrade to this category of hardware is proving to be the most troublesome Be aware that UEFI & BIOS firmware have many similar screens & settings. Check for this hardware as follows: #invoke UEFI settings, at boot time #if the opening UEFI page contains reference to a "UEFI version number" then the computer has UEFI firmware and falls into this category ==== <span style="color:#005600; background:#black">Computers having BIOS Firmware ==== This upgrade generally proceeds without problems. The following specific combination of factors has been tested: '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the Linux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 463156131929abaaa6e7c5ef6ab00196a61a5269 1665 1649 2016-12-03T22:06:28Z Rpeters 14 /* New Windows 10 Computers */added detailed preliminaries plus mention of instlux wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ Key preliminary steps are: #from Windows #*disable "Fastboot" #*disable "Virtual Memory" #**delete swapper.dat or equiv #(optionally) shrink Windows 10 main partition - see below for link to procedure #*some Linux (openSUSE) will do same as part of their standard install procedure #enter UEFI setup (usually F2 early in the boot process) and #*disable "Secure Boot" - it will be mandatory to add a password to UEFI setup #**'''write''' this password down, in clear text and store in several locations - having the manufacturer reset it could be expensive #*ensure that boot mode is "UEFI" #**do '''not''' change to "Legacy/BIOS" mode Here are two links to successful procedures for UEFI & BIOS computers. Although oriented to Ubuntu, analogous steps should work with other Linux: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside.html http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside_8.html Win 10 will probably need to be shrunk: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-shrink-windows-10-to-make-space.html A procedure that might work for openSUSE users is the latter's "instlux" routine. The key to this routine is that it firstly '''disables''' the Windows boot manager, that does not accommodate Linux. See: https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Instlux ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === ==== Computers having UEFI Firmware ==== typically home computers that came with Windows 8.x or generic mainboards of the same era *be aware that business-oriented computers of the same hardware era were often installed with Windows 7, but fall into this category *many are currently (2016) being refurbished and re-sold by major retailers Upgrade to this category of hardware is proving to be the most troublesome Be aware that UEFI & BIOS firmware have many similar screens & settings. Check for this hardware as follows: #invoke UEFI settings, at boot time #if the opening UEFI page contains reference to a "UEFI version number" then the computer has UEFI firmware and falls into this category ==== <span style="color:#005600; background:#black">Computers having BIOS Firmware ==== This upgrade generally proceeds without problems. The following specific combination of factors has been tested: '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the Linux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] d4c66d29b4ec0ab1b0035b065e482470705a0f35 0 218 1630 1370 2016-09-12T22:18:38Z Rpeters 14 added forgotten password page wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[Forgotten_Passwords]] 5b4be303b51064cc8419e6f32caf2320a14fe5b5 1660 1630 2016-11-19T04:13:48Z Rpeters 14 added wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] * [[Forgotten_Passwords]] * [[Restoration]] ed4cf237b0cb8fc860ea63708a92ec4dc6707e93 0 241 1631 2016-09-12T22:37:08Z Rpeters 14 added password change procedures wikitext text/x-wiki == User Passwords == User passwords can be reset as follows: #log in as "root" #switch to user account, eg for user "fred" #<nowiki># su fred</nowiki> #execute password command to change password for user "fred" <nowiki>$ passwd</nowiki> == Root Password == Root password can be reset only via booting another Linux on the same computer - either: *another installed Linux *a utility USB/CD booted on the computer - these generally run from the root account #mount the partition containing the root filesystem of the installation for which password reset is required - eg for /dev/sda10 #<nowiki># mount /dev/sda10 /mnt</nowiki> #change to the mounted partition #<nowiki># chroot /mnt</nowiki> #execute password command to change password for user "fred" #<nowiki>$ passwd</nowiki> 512c82589d6077484faf38c0f9ba5355b91694f3 1632 1631 2016-09-12T22:44:27Z Rpeters 14 added section re physical security wikitext text/x-wiki == User Passwords == User passwords can be reset as follows: #log in as "root" #switch to user account, eg for user "fred" #<nowiki># su fred</nowiki> #execute password command to change password for user "fred" <nowiki>$ passwd</nowiki> == Root Password == Root password can be reset only via booting another Linux on the same computer - either: *another installed Linux *a utility USB/CD booted on the computer - these generally run from the root account #mount the partition containing the root filesystem of the installation for which password reset is required - eg for /dev/sda10 #<nowiki># mount /dev/sda10 /mnt</nowiki> #change to the mounted partition #<nowiki># chroot /mnt</nowiki> #execute password command to change password for user "fred" #<nowiki>$ passwd</nowiki> == Physical Security == It will be seen from the above that any password could be changed on a computer to which physical access is obtained. Any unencrypted '''data''' could then be retrieved from such computer. It is therefore essential to: *prevent unwanted physical access to working computers *securely erase SSD/HDD storage on computers sent for disposal *physically destroy or securely erase unwanted removable media such as floppies, USB, SD, CD/DVD 162ad68806ee6d7a490d529ce36da4cef3bc42db 1633 1632 2016-09-12T22:47:37Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == User Passwords == User passwords can be reset as follows: #log in as "root" #switch to user account, eg for user "fred" #<nowiki># su fred</nowiki> #execute password command to change password for user "fred" #<nowiki>$ passwd</nowiki> #'''logout''' from root account #<nowiki>$ exit</nowiki> #<nowiki># exit</nowiki> #<nowiki>$</nowiki> == Root Password == Root password can be reset only via booting another Linux on the same computer - either: *another installed Linux *a utility USB/CD booted on the computer - these generally run from the root account #mount the partition containing the root filesystem of the installation for which password reset is required - eg for /dev/sda10 #<nowiki># mount /dev/sda10 /mnt</nowiki> #change to the mounted partition #<nowiki># chroot /mnt</nowiki> #execute password command to change password for user "fred" #<nowiki>$ passwd</nowiki> == Physical Security == It will be seen from the above that any password could be changed on a computer to which physical access is obtained. Any unencrypted '''data''' could then be retrieved from such computer. It is therefore essential to: *prevent unwanted physical access to working computers *securely erase SSD/HDD storage on computers sent for disposal *physically destroy or securely erase unwanted removable media such as floppies, USB, SD, CD/DVD e74a6fc1b9ebe969c92fad1a7f9cc5ba52a14c41 1634 1633 2016-09-12T22:52:53Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == User Passwords == User passwords can be reset as follows: #log in as "root" #switch to user account, eg for user "fred" #<nowiki># su fred</nowiki> #execute password command to change password for user "fred" #<nowiki>$ passwd</nowiki> #'''logout''' from root account #<nowiki>$ exit</nowiki> #<nowiki># exit</nowiki> #<nowiki>$</nowiki> == Root Password == Root password can be reset only via booting another Linux on the same computer - either: *another installed Linux *a utility USB/CD booted on the computer - these generally run from the root account #mount the partition containing the root filesystem of the installation for which password reset is required - eg for /dev/sda10 #<nowiki># mount /dev/sda10 /mnt</nowiki> #change to the mounted partition #<nowiki># chroot /mnt</nowiki> #execute password command to change password for user "fred" #<nowiki>$ passwd</nowiki> #return to booted environment #<nowiki># exit</nowiki> #safely unmount installed system #<nowiki># umount /mnt</nowiki> #if running from installed OS, then '''logout''' from root account == Physical Security == It will be seen from the above that any password could be changed on a computer to which physical access is obtained. Any unencrypted '''data''' could then be retrieved from such computer. It is therefore essential to: *prevent unwanted physical access to working computers *securely erase SSD/HDD storage on computers sent for disposal *physically destroy or securely erase unwanted removable media such as floppies, USB, SD, CD/DVD 34e8b3f19739f82082faaf9822eef043cd37377f 0 7 1635 1615 2016-09-12T22:59:10Z Rpeters 14 /* Disks */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] *[[Secure Erasure]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Desk-Top Computers ==== *[[HP ProDesk 400 G1]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] fb15f076f2995c61c930cbb1ef092dc44493a74d 0 242 1636 2016-09-12T23:09:24Z Rpeters 14 added outline wikitext text/x-wiki Contrary to popular belief none of the following actions removes a file from storage media. Instead, these actions simply remove the file from an index: *delete *move *(re)-format Software is available that can retrieve files that have simply been removed from an index. In order to prevent recovery of files from media being disposed of it is necessary to either: *physically destroy the media (can be simplest for removable media such as floppies, CD/DVD *run a "secure erase" program over HDD/SSD == Secure Erase == Risk of Inadvertent Erasure f12585d2fab8048b925ca22bfd5e92dab3c3939b 1637 1636 2016-09-14T02:42:16Z Rpeters 14 addded outline of secure erasure process wikitext text/x-wiki Contrary to popular belief none of the following actions removes a file from storage media. Instead, these actions simply remove the file from an index: *delete *move *(re)-format Software is available that can retrieve files that have simply been removed from an index. In order to prevent recovery of files from media being disposed of it is necessary to either: *physically destroy the media (can be simplest for removable media such as floppies, CD/DVD *run a "secure erase" program over HDD/SSD == Secure Erase == <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">Risk of Inadvertent Erasure In order to minimise the risk of inadvertently erasing wanted media: *avoid installing erasure software to OS that are installed *disconnect and HDD/SDD containing software and/or data that is to be retained *boot a utility from USB/CD/DVD in order to run the erasure software Well known utility systems that can be booted from external media and contain a thorough erasure app include: *systemrescue CD *parted magic 20d43c892d04b831bc3e563df9912be6723789e8 1638 1637 2016-09-14T02:43:35Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Contrary to popular belief none of the following actions removes a file from storage media. Instead, these actions simply remove the file from an index: *delete *move *(re)-format Software is available that can retrieve files that have simply been removed from an index. In order to prevent recovery of files from media being disposed of it is necessary to either: *physically destroy the media (can be simplest for removable media such as floppies, CD/DVD *run a "secure erase" program over HDD/SSD == Secure Erase == <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">Risk of Inadvertent Erasure In order to minimise the risk of inadvertently erasing wanted media: *avoid installing erasure software to OS that are installed *disconnect and HDD/SDD containing software and/or data that is to be retained *boot a utility from USB/CD/DVD in order to run the erasure software Well known utility systems that can be booted from external media and contain a thorough erasure app include: *systemrescue CD *parted magic [[Category: Technical Info]] e57857ec7066842fafda1e46de2003a9ee06d184 1639 1638 2016-09-14T02:44:57Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Contrary to popular belief none of the following actions removes a file from storage media. Instead, these actions simply remove the file from an index: *delete *move *(re)-format Software is available that can retrieve files that have simply been removed from an index. In order to prevent recovery of files from media being disposed of it is necessary to either: *physically destroy the media (can be simplest for removable media such as floppies, CD/DVD *run a "secure erase" program over HDD/SSD == Secure Erase == <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">Risk of Inadvertent Erasure In order to minimise the risk of inadvertently erasing wanted media: *avoid installing erasure software to OS that are installed *disconnect any HDD/SDD containing software and/or data that is to be retained *boot a utility from USB/CD/DVD in order to run the erasure software Well known utility systems that can be booted from external media and contain a thorough erasure app include: *systemrescue CD *parted magic [[Category: Technical Info]] c66d5939d8c600cc4dd4e31d56e9bb8c592a3435 1640 1639 2016-09-14T02:45:48Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Contrary to popular belief none of the following actions removes a file from storage media. Instead, these actions simply remove the file from an index: *delete *move *(re)-format Software is available that can retrieve files that have simply been removed from an index. In order to prevent recovery of files from media being disposed of it is necessary to either: *physically destroy the media (can be simplest for removable media such as floppies, CD/DVD, SD cards) *run a "secure erase" program over HDD/SSD == Secure Erase == <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">Risk of Inadvertent Erasure In order to minimise the risk of inadvertently erasing wanted media: *avoid installing erasure software to OS that are installed *disconnect any HDD/SDD containing software and/or data that is to be retained *boot a utility from USB/CD/DVD in order to run the erasure software Well known utility systems that can be booted from external media and contain a thorough erasure app include: *systemrescue CD *parted magic [[Category: Technical Info]] e7e54e6a02f7dce907f6f2c71fdff4a48bc8455f 0 157 1641 1358 2016-09-14T03:01:51Z Rpeters 14 added outline for AF drives & GPT partitioning wikitext text/x-wiki The new technologies being introduced with PC & disk drives manufactured in 2011 and later include the core technology of UEFI firmware and its related technologies: *AF disk drives *GPT disk partitioning *EFI boot routine *Secure Boot (within the UEFI firmware) More detailed guidelines, help and recommendations are available from: http://rodsbooks.com Many mainboards that were manufactured by Intel from 2006 include (U)EFI, but are likely to require upgrading to the latest available firmware release, in order to work reliably with the first three technologies above. Intel provide an ISO image of a bootable CD, which allows the upgrade to be done without Windows. == EFI Boot == The EFI bootloader within UEFI is capable of booting a kernel image directly, provided that the image has an extension of .efi. Getting this working, directly, requires being able to add to the boot entries in the mainboard's setup and this feature is not implemented on all mainboards. After entering the mainboard's setup, folllow the trail: Boot tab -> Boot Priority -> Add entry Workarounds include: #many current Linux installer routines will place an entry for a bootloader (eg grub.efi, although it is likely to be named after the distro) in the mainboard's boot priority list #the rEFInd boot manager from the above site will place an entry for itself in the mainboard's list. #*rEFInd is more flexible, being able to select various boot devices: #** a bootloader such as grub.efi #** a CD or USB boot device or #** a kernel file having .efi extension #*rEFInd also presents an attractive boot menu, having icon-interface EFI boot looks for FAT32 partitions having type code ef00 (type ESP). Contemporary kernel + initrd occupy > 20 MB. An ESP of several hundred MB is advisable if many OS will be installed on the PC or if older kernels are being retained. == Secure Boot == The situation in early 2015 is: *most "mainstream" Linux can be installed and booted with secure boot enabled *less popular distribution might work only if secure boot has been set to DISABLED **UEFI settings routine might require that a password be set for UEFI before disabling secure boot **if such password were forgotten then it might not be possible to later change settings. The UEFI specification does provide for Secure Boot to be able to be disabled *AMI provide this feature in their UEFI (although hardware makers might not implement it) *Award/Phoenix ? Linux users are advised not to purchase a new computer (desktop or laptop) without first confirming that it will boot Linux (eg from CD Live CD or installed to USB stick) Secure boot '''can''' be disabled on the following models: === Acer Notebooks === #Completely shut down your computer #power up/reboot and press F2 #Use the right arrow key to select Security #Use the down arrow key to highlight Set Supervisor Password and press Enter. #Create a password and press Enter. Retype the password to confirm and press Enter again. #Use the right arrow key to select Boot. #Press the down arrow key to select Secure Boot and press Enter. #With the arrow key, highlight Disabled and press Enter. #Press the F10 key and select Yes to save the changes and exit the BIOS. === Samsung Notebooks === #Restart the computer and press 'F2' key 4-5 times to access ‘BIOS Setup’. #Press 'F9' key to initialize the 'BIOS' settings. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. #Restart the computer and immediately begin pressing 'F2' key 4-5 times to access ‘BIOS Setup’. #Go to 'Boot' menu. #Set the 'Secure Boot' option to [Disabled], and set the 'OS Mode Selection' menu to [CSM OS]. #Set the ‘Fast BIOS Mode’ in the ’Advanced’ menu to [Disabled]. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. #Select the 'Boot Device Priority' in the 'Boot' menu then press 'F5' or 'F6' key to move the DVD to top position. #Press 'F10' key to save 'BIOS' settings then restart the system. http://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers/samsung/15-notebook-sku-90670/ == AF Drives == *are compatible with Linux kernels 3.n.n and later *improve capacity and performance of spinning media eg HDD *is generally not implemented on SSD **no performance benefit **not required for capacity #> 2 TB **'''inadvisable''' to apply to SSD - contemporary partitioning utilities such as gparted, gdisk etc take account of SSD == GPT Partitioning == *is compatible with Linux kernels 3.n.n and later *more robust partition table, less likely to be corrupted *can also be used on HDD/SSD << 2 TB *requires a simple work-around of a "BIOS boot partition" (type ef02) when used on a bootable drive with a mainboard utilising a BIOS (as opposed to UEFI) **also requires a patched verion of Grub-legacy. Compatible with Grub 2 [[User:Rpeters|Rod]]14:03, 18 Freruary 2014 (EST) [[Category: Technical Info]] 50e35fdb9df71102e01532f8f73ff0ae19634064 0 53 1642 280 2016-10-03T03:48:22Z Rpeters 14 added synopsis of TENS wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for some interesting programs that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. == For General Users == === TENS === TENS (Trusted End Node Security) is primarily for additional security when using the Internet. It achieves this via: *writing nothing to hard disk (does not have a driver for HDD/SSD) *caching nothing *running entirely in memory and eliminating all data when shut down TENS was prepared by US Air Force and is available to the public, free of charge, from: https://spi.dod.mil Instructions for putting it on bootable DVD or USB device are provided. An SD card, of Class 10 (30x) of faster, with USB card reader, is best. It loads rather slowly from DVD. Basic operations such as browsing should not require instructions. A manual covering more complex functions is included as a PDF document. The "deluxe" version includes LibreOffice and could be used to prepare documents, without leaving backup files on a PC - it will take a little longer to load to memory. Either can print to a limited range of USB-attached or network printers and (theoretically) all printers that are controlled via a CUPS or Samba server (most NAS) == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] d70d1087dd63302a89ba8ac01d7854ce2a217c60 1648 1642 2016-10-17T22:05:50Z Rpeters 14 added hardware requirements wikitext text/x-wiki Collected here are suggestions for some interesting programs that some of our members have found useful, so perhaps you will to. == For General Users == === TENS === TENS (Trusted End Node Security) is primarily for additional security when using the Internet. It achieves this via: *writing nothing to hard disk (does not have a driver for HDD/SSD) *caching nothing *running entirely in memory and eliminating all data when shut down TENS was prepared by US Air Force and is available to the public, free of charge, from: https://spi.dod.mil Instructions for putting it on bootable DVD or USB device are provided. An SD card, of Class 10 (30x) of faster, with USB card reader, is best. It loads rather slowly from DVD. Basic operations such as browsing should not require instructions. A manual covering more complex functions is included as a PDF document. The "deluxe" version includes LibreOffice and could be used to prepare documents, without leaving backup files on a PC - it will take a little longer to load to memory. Either can print to a limited range of USB-attached or network printers and (theoretically) all printers that are controlled via a CUPS or Samba server (most NAS) TENS should run on many older computers, because its Hardware Requirements are not demanding: *single core CPU **(same DVD or USB will run on 32 bit or 64 bit CPU) *1 GB RAM *'''PAE''' in CPU **TENS will quickly present an error message if PAE is not supported **only practical alternative is to try a different computer *(optional) wired or WiFi network == Getting Technical == * == Strictly for Geeks == * [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 1c04383052e3a82cec99724d7bcd9ca308cb19db 0 207 1643 1384 2016-10-03T03:57:00Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki A common question asked by those new (and not so new) to Linux is what Firewall/anti-virus/anti-spyware is needed. #a Firewall is essential with any networked computer #*most Linux install and enable an SPI firewall by default #**if "lsmod" includes "IPTables" in its listing then a firewall is enabled #*an SPI firewall in a router is also advisable #**NB - many routers default this to "DISABLED" - be certain to enable it. #*having both firewalls enabled simultaneously is unlikely to cause problems #anti-virus is completely unnecessary with Linux #*don't be ripped-off for it #*ClamAV is a free anti-virus scanner app for Linux #**scans foreign storage media and email attachments for Windows viruses #anti-spyware in Linux relies on an informed user The TENS live-SD can be used for occasional additional security. See [[Interesting_Programs]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:57, 3 October 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] e53c7e0952c20984f55273db90eeb4e7a28a56ff 1644 1643 2016-10-03T03:57:34Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki A common question asked by those new (and not so new) to Linux is what Firewall/anti-virus/anti-spyware is needed. #a Firewall is essential with any networked computer #*most Linux install and enable an SPI firewall by default #**if "lsmod" includes "IPTables" in its listing then a firewall is enabled #*an SPI firewall in a router is also advisable #**NB - many routers default this to "DISABLED" - be certain to enable it. #*having both firewalls enabled simultaneously is unlikely to cause problems #anti-virus is completely unnecessary with Linux #*don't be ripped-off for it #*ClamAV is a free anti-virus scanner app for Linux #**scans foreign storage media and email attachments for Windows viruses #anti-spyware in Linux relies on an informed user The TENS live-SD can be used for occasional additional security. See [[Interesting_Programs]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:57, 3 October 2016 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 9f9b29d513b3bdb83e16a10c4b55633becb03c17 0 219 1645 1381 2016-10-03T04:00:34Z Rpeters 14 added recommendation for SD card wikitext text/x-wiki Most Linux can be run from a "Live" CD/DVD/USB media, without installing '''anything''' on the computer's hard drive *desirable for evaluation of Linux on computers having Windows installed, where inexpert installation could overwrite Windows *enables unknown Linux to be evaluated for functionality & ease of use *'''NB''' any software will take relatively long to load and be relatively slow to run in this mode **SD (or microSD) card, of Class 10 or better ratign, in a SD-USB reader will load software many times faster than a DVD drive. Live CD/DVD/USB can be created via most operating systems, using files that are mostly free to download from the Internet. See: [[Using dotISO Files]] aad3d11e1f2ccfdabb9c6b6b9eaccaf049ccfff8 1646 1645 2016-10-03T04:01:01Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Most Linux can be run from a "Live" CD/DVD/USB media, without installing '''anything''' on the computer's hard drive *desirable for evaluation of Linux on computers having Windows installed, where inexpert installation could overwrite Windows *enables unknown Linux to be evaluated for functionality & ease of use *'''NB''' any software will take relatively long to load and be relatively slow to run in this mode **SD (or microSD) card, of Class 10 or better rating, in a SD-USB reader will load software many times faster than a DVD drive. Live CD/DVD/USB can be created via most operating systems, using files that are mostly free to download from the Internet. See: [[Using dotISO Files]] bedcad62a25ddc863a6c54a93b5abd25015e051e 0 165 1647 1579 2016-10-03T04:38:24Z Rpeters 14 /* Selection Guideance */ added link to openSUSE wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices scan via USB interface only and not via network. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] c46b0ee5f0f9f65f2f041d5d3a1e1634e44e5e45 0 88 1650 1544 2016-11-13T06:53:43Z Rpeters 14 various minor updates & spelling corrections wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 346149f5989269c94598bb856f51183c6f92e7e2 1651 1650 2016-11-13T07:00:54Z Rpeters 14 /* For Intermediate Users */outlined openSUSE to Tumbleweed conversion wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #*also feasible to convert an up-to-date periodic release of 13.2 or Leap to Tumbleweed #*#update installed product #*#change repositories to Tumbleweed equivalent (including DVD, if installing via that medium #*#from a '''console''' (CTL-ALT-F2) on the running installation: #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 5be5c42d70f81cbca5d59dbc2e21a43a693500dc 1652 1651 2016-11-13T07:07:17Z Rpeters 14 /* For Intermediate Users */more detail of tumbleweed wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #*also feasible to convert an up-to-date periodic release of 13.2 or Leap to Tumbleweed #*first read guidelines at en.opensuse.org/Portal:Tumbleweed #*#update installed product #*#change repositories to Tumbleweed equivalent (including DVD, if installing via that medium #*#from a '''console''' (CTL-ALT-F2) on the running installation: #*##sudo zypper ref (might take several minutes to complete) #*##sudo zypper dup (might take half-hour to several hours) #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 717f78c21ed2cdd05f50f221beae133d0c04bdc9 1653 1652 2016-11-13T07:10:24Z Rpeters 14 /* For Intermediate Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #*also feasible to convert an up-to-date periodic release of 13.2 or Leap to Tumbleweed #*first read guidelines at en.opensuse.org/Portal:Tumbleweed #*#update installed product #*#change repositories to Tumbleweed equivalent (including DVD, if installing via that medium #*#from a '''console''' (CTL-ALT-F2) on the running installation: #*##sudo zypper ref (might take several minutes to complete) #*##sudo zypper dup (might take half-hour to several hours) #*##*repeat this command if the upgrade is interrupted, for any reason #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 36998956f39c5b95986cfc03ab065e20c504a634 1654 1653 2016-11-13T07:12:02Z Rpeters 14 /* For Intermediate Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #*also feasible to convert an up-to-date periodic release of 13.2 or Leap to Tumbleweed #*first read guidelines at en.opensuse.org/Portal:Tumbleweed #*#update installed product #*#change repositories to Tumbleweed equivalent (including DVD, if installing via that medium #*#from a '''console''' (CTL-ALT-F2) on the '''running''' installation: #*##sudo zypper ref (might take several minutes to complete) #*##sudo zypper dup (might take half-hour to several hours) #*##*repeat this command if the upgrade is interrupted, for any reason #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 32f0305e9d6c1ba60be3f6513c258a0b4c580335 1655 1654 2016-11-13T07:17:11Z Rpeters 14 /* Functionality */added GeckoLinux to general users wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #*the derivative GeckoLinux is focused more on desktop/laptop use than servers and might better suit many users #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #*also feasible to convert an up-to-date periodic release of 13.2 or Leap to Tumbleweed #*first read guidelines at en.opensuse.org/Portal:Tumbleweed #*#update installed product #*#change repositories to Tumbleweed equivalent (including DVD, if installing via that medium #*#from a '''console''' (CTL-ALT-F2) on the '''running''' installation: #*##sudo zypper ref (might take several minutes to complete) #*##sudo zypper dup (might take half-hour to several hours) #*##*repeat this command if the upgrade is interrupted, for any reason #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 9f705752e39bf932522bd7bff69ead8179620280 1656 1655 2016-11-13T20:39:11Z Rpeters 14 /* For Intermediate Users */clarified conversion to Tumbleweed wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #*the derivative GeckoLinux is focused more on desktop/laptop use than servers and might better suit many users #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #*also feasible to convert an up-to-date periodic release of 13.2 or Leap to Tumbleweed #*first read guidelines at en.opensuse.org/Portal:Tumbleweed #*#update installed product #*#(optionally) download '''latest''' Tumbleweed DVD ISO #*#(optionally) make bootable ISO on CD/DVD/SD #*#from the '''running''', updated, already installed, periodic release: #*#use Yast to change repositories to Tumbleweed equivalent (including DVD, if installing via that medium) #*#from a '''console''' (eg CTL-ALT-F2) #*##sudo zypper ref (might take several minutes to complete) #*##sudo zypper dup (might take half-hour to several hours) #*##*repeat this command if the upgrade is interrupted, for any reason #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 85c867b7c6eabde4bf6774cfd3fb0e0462f85f53 1657 1656 2016-11-13T20:48:30Z Rpeters 14 /* For Intermediate Users */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #*the derivative GeckoLinux is focused more on desktop/laptop use than servers and might better suit many users #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #*also feasible to convert an up-to-date, periodic release of 13.2 or Leap to Tumbleweed #*first read guidelines at en.opensuse.org/Portal:Tumbleweed #*#update installed product #*#(optionally) download '''latest''' Tumbleweed DVD ISO #*#*advisable for laptop/netbook because online conversion would take several hours #*#(optionally) make bootable ISO on CD/DVD/SD #*#from the '''running''', updated, already installed, periodic release: #*#use Yast to change repositories to Tumbleweed equivalent (including DVD, if converting via that medium) #*#from a '''console''' (eg CTL-ALT-F2) #*##sudo zypper ref (might take several minutes to complete) #*##sudo zypper dup (might take half-hour to several hours) #*##*repeat this command if the upgrade is interrupted, for any reason #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === utility CD #PartedMagic #*small fee payable online #SystemRescueCD firewall/gateway/router #Smoothwall Express #IPFire #*only one supporting ARM-based hardware #IPCop no longer recommended #*release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained #*release 2.x less reliable == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 98836f74f108a1e4b006d7623ba5bed3509f9dc5 1658 1657 2016-11-13T20:59:30Z Rpeters 14 /* Specialised Distributions */updated specialised distributions wikitext text/x-wiki == For Beginners == === Selection === ==== Functionality ==== One size does not fil all. Some key differentiators to evaluate include: #the functionality/style of "Control Panel" and that is best asssesed by trying various live CD from the suggestions below #look-and-feel of the various Desktop enviroments #*Unity #*KDE #*Gnome #*LXQT/LXDE #*MATE #*XFCE #*Enlightenment #Applications #*this should not be a "show-stopper" #*whilst > 700 MB won't fit on a CD, most Distributions have large, on-line repositories from which many applications can be installed quite simply Suggestions from PCUG's Linux SIG depend on perspective: for best support from the SIG #Linux Mint #openSUSE #*the derivative GeckoLinux is focused more on desktop/laptop use than servers and might better suit many users #Ubuntu for Windows/MacOS like experience #KDE variants of the above uncomplicated/mobile computing #Peppermint for netbooks and low spec hardware #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXQT #Leeenux (minor cost for this distribution) #Puppy #*limited network security ==== Support ==== Support tends to follow one of three differing models: *periodic release - major upgrades are typically annual or biannual **routine updates provided for about 2 years *LTS (long term support) **similar to periodic, but with updates for about 5 years **the least "bleeding edge" model **tends to be used for distributions oriented to commercial use *"rolling release" **updates provided continually and indefinitely **no requirement to ever do a major upgrade Beginners could consider a LTS distribution, because it requires least intervention *many periodic releases have no '''process''' to implement an upgrade **necessitating complete re-installation at about 2 year intervals ==== Bandwidth ==== Installing and maintaining Linux requires a moderate amount of download bandwidth & quota. The following ISP provide unmetered download from their "mirror" *iinet & subsidiaries (via the Internode mirror) *Optus *Telstra Both installation CD/DVD and routine updates are available from the mirrors. It is '''essential''' to use the exact URL for the ISP's mirror *in your browser for downloading ISO images of Installation media and *in your Update configurations. See the Control Panel in your distribution The above mirrors have most commonly used distributions available === Distribution Specific Notes === All distributions have some "quirks" which might not be covered in installation & usage guides ==== Antergos ==== Antergos is a '''rolling release''', while based on Arch, is well suited to beginners ===== Mirrors ===== installer will select mirror.anu.edu.au *if not your un-metered mirror then about 1 GB of quota will be used *changing mirror after installation requires manual edit of file: <nowiki>/etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist</nowiki> **bring required mirror to top of list *minor, metered download still for the Angergos specific packages ==== openSUSE==== ===== Locale ===== *essential that this be set '''correctly''' at installation stage *correct settings for Australia are UK language plus US keyboard *#first select via F2 on the opening installation screen *#verify & correct if necessary on final pre-installation summary screen *following installation go to Start->System Settings->locale *#set to Australia and language EN-GB ===== Repositoiries ===== openSUSE handles differently from many other Linuxes *has hundreds of online repositiories **only "installation media", update, oss and non-oss are set by default **change last three to local mirrors (preferably unmetered), to generally get faster download **additional repositories should not be required by beginners **any that are set require a higher priority '''(lower number)''' than the defaults ===== Printer Setup ===== *several of the printer setup routines are '''broken''' *http://localhost:631 in a browser gives the most reliable for initialy setting up each printer **printers must be powered up and connected to the local PC or network **root password is required *Start->System->Configuration->Print Settings provides good control of parameters '''after''' initial setup ==== ROSA ==== Key feature in this distribution is the tablet/Windows 8 style interface of the ROSA FRESH KDE R7 variant *has no local mirrors and will incur significant download quota == For Intermediate Users == for continual upgrade to latest software releases #openSUSE with Tumbleweed repository enabled #*also feasible to convert an up-to-date, periodic release of 13.2 or Leap to Tumbleweed #*first read guidelines at en.opensuse.org/Portal:Tumbleweed #*#update installed product #*#(optionally) download '''latest''' Tumbleweed DVD ISO #*#*advisable for laptop/netbook because online conversion would take several hours #*#(optionally) make bootable ISO on CD/DVD/SD #*#from the '''running''', updated, already installed, periodic release: #*#use Yast to change repositories to Tumbleweed equivalent (including DVD, if converting via that medium) #*#from a '''console''' (eg CTL-ALT-F2) #*##sudo zypper ref (might take several minutes to complete) #*##sudo zypper dup (might take half-hour to several hours) #*##*repeat this command if the upgrade is interrupted, for any reason #Ubuntu with Universe repository enabled #Antergos (an Arch derivative, having GUI) #*initial install involves up to 1 GB of '''metered''' download #*mirror can be configured after installation and used for all subsequent updates for fewest upgrades #Ubuntu (& derivatives) based on Long Term Support (LTS) core for users having a dearth of download quota, the following mirrors might be unmetered. Check your ISP's terms: *mirror.internode.on.net/pub *mirror.aarnet.edu.au for netbooks and low spec hardware #4MLinux #Peppermint #PC Linux OS LXDE #the new razorqt desktop #*www.qtdesktop.org #*available for most major distributions === Specialised Distributions === backup/migration *Clonezilla utility/recovery CD *PartedMagic **small fee payable online *SystemRescueCD *4MLinux firewall/gateway/router *IPFire **only one supporting ARM-based hardware *IPCop no longer recommended **release 1.4.x is stable, but no longer maintained **release 2.x less reliable *Smoothwall Express Home Server *4MLinux *IPFire (with addons) *openSUSE (minimal text mode installation) *Arkos (runs ownCloud on some ARM devices) Home Entertainment *openELEC *4MLinux (for old hardware) == For Geeks == the following are generally regarded as not suited to beginners. #Arch #Gentoo #Slackware === Arch Linux === '''Advantages''' *continuously updated *robust *tailerable to compact installations *usable on low-end hardware *supports many ARM based devices '''Disadvantages''' *requires much additional, manual setup **many emerging derivative distributions having graphical installation plus user interface ***Manjaro appears to be the most robust ***Angergos & Bridge also available ***Arkos (in beta) is promising home server --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 13:59, 19 August 2012 (EST) ==== Basic Installation ==== First select the swap partition, sda5 (say). If you are using an SSD and have sufficient RAM, consider doing without a swap partition: # mkswap /dev/sda5 # swapon /dev/sda5 Then you will need to format the root partition, which (say) is sda7, using (say) the ext4 filesystem: # mkfs -t ext4 /dev/sda7 If you are uncomfortable with using command-line disk partitioning and formatting tools, it's best if you prepare your disk using external tools like gparted. But once you have prepared a root partition for Arch Linux, mount it on /mnt: # mount /dev/sda7 /mnt If you want to have separate partitions for /home and /boot, mount them as well in appropriate directories such as to /mnt/home, and /mnt/boot. (Use mkdir /mnt/home, mkdir /mnt/boot first) Configuring the network shouldn't be an issue if your network has a router that hands out IP address via DHCP, as the Arch install CD has a DHCP service already enabled. If you don't use DHCP, you'll have to manually setup an IP address. Arch can assist you with various tools, such as netctl and wifi-menu to setup the Wi-Fi network. (Again start with https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide). Now edit the file that lists Arch mirrors to select a preferred mirror for downloading packages: # nano /etc/pacman.d/mirrorlist Copy your preferred mirrors (eg iinet or internode) to the top of this file to ensure they are searched first (they have "free" arch mirrors for their customers). The main packages can be viewed in /etc/pacman.conf, which is where you can add special ones if required. For example, add the following lines to this file if you want to use a zfs file system: # zfs [demz-repo-core] SigLevel = Optional TrustAll #Required Server = http://demizerone.com/$repo/$arch When you're done, use Arch's pacstrap script to download and install the core packages: # pacstrap /mnt base base-devel Once the core packages have been downloaded generate an fstab file to define how the storage devices will be mounted: # genfstab -U -p /mnt >> /mnt/etc/fstab You'll now have to chroot into the installed base to configure the other components of the Arch installation. Arch Linux wraps the standard chroot command inside a custom script called arch-chroot. # arch-chroot /mnt Congratulations, you're now inside your new Arch installation. You'll now set your hostname by placing it in the /etc/hostname file. # echo yourchoice > /etc/hostname Also symlink /etc/localtime to your timezone listed under /usr/share/zoneinfo, such as: # ln -s /usr/share/zoneinfo/Australia/Canberra /etc/localtime Then open the /etc/locale.gen file and uncomment the locale you wish to use, such as en_AU.UTF8 UTF8. A locale defines a user's language, country and other related parameters. Then run locale-gen to set it up. # echo LANG=en_AU.UTF-8 > /etc/locale.conf # locale-gen Now you'll need to set the keyboard mapping with: # localectl set-keymap us The default is "us" anyway so this can be skipped in Australia. You'll now have to create an initial ramdisk environment, which will load kernel modules and set up the environment before handing over the control of the initiation process. Arch uses the mkinitcpio script for this purpose. Experienced users would want to edit the /etc/mkinitcpio.conf file before creating the ram disk with: # mkinitcpio -p linux But you can skip this step if you accept the default. The last step in setting up our basic Arch system is installing and configuring a bootloader. Arch supports the grub and syslinux bootloaders. In this example, we'll set up the lightweight syslinux bootloader, but you can setup grub by following instructions that can be found on the Arch wiki https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Beginners_Guide. First, grab the syslinux bootloader as well as the gptfdisk package to modify our GUID Partiton Table with: # pacman -S syslinux gptfdisk Then install the bootloader and mark the Arch partition as bootable with: # syslinux-install_update -i -a -m Finally, edit the /boot/syslinux/syslinux.cfg file to point to the Arch Linux partition (Here /dev/sda5. The cfg file sets it typically to /dev/sda3 so it is important to check this. Before you log out of the chroot environment don't forget to set a password for the root user with passwd. # passwd <enter passwd (twice)> Press Ctrl+D (or enter exit) to exit the chroot environment and unmount the Arch partition with umount -R /mnt. That's the end of the install process. You can now restart your computer and boot into your shiny new Arch installation. If you have a wired ethernet connection (see the wiki for wireless) it may be necessary to set it up again using the following: # ip link Shows the ethernet link name. SystemD shows this as "enp3s0" on my system rather than "eth0". # ip addr Shows ip address assigned (in case you are interested). Enable this: # systemctl enable dhcpcd@enp3s0.service This only has to be done the first time you start up the new system. Start it up. # dhcpcd See the wiki for a more detailed description of this process. To test that you are talking to the outside world, try: # ping 8.8.8.8 (a Google DNS) You should get a response if all goes well. Post install customisations Arch uses the systemd system and service manager. So it's a good idea to spend some time learning the basics of the systemctl command, which interacts with systemd. (It is not all that complicated. You do not need many of its options at this stage). The installed base system only has a CLI. For graphics, install the base Xorg packages: # pacman -S xorg-server xorg-server-utils xorg-xinit (optionally) Install mesa for 3D support: # pacman -S mesa Before you can install a desktop environment you will need to install drivers for your video hardware. If you do not know which video chipset is available on your machine, run: # lspci | grep VGA Use pacman to search for a list of open source video drivers in Arch's repos with: # pacman -Ss xf86-video | less And install the one that matches your hardware. If appropriate, you can download and install a proprietary Nvidia driver with: # pacman -S nvidia You can then use pacman and begin to install components such as your preferred desktop environment, an office suite and a web browser etc. Do a google search starting with "arch" for availability/instructions You can also set up a user with the useradd command: # useradd -m -g users -G wheel -s /bin/bash myusername (the wheel group membership facilitates using sudo). Installing a fully featured desktop environment like kde will then provide most of what you need immediately to start up your desktop (kde-workspace installs its preferred login/display manager: kdm): # pacman -S kde-base kde-workspace (More recently the kde references have been replaced by the group name kde). Restart the system. You should now be able to boot into your new system. To boot into your desktop environment automatically see https://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/Display_Manager#Loading_the_display_manager. If you've chosen a display manager, say gdm then the following will set it up: # sudo systemctl enable gdm Otherwise reboot, login to the CLI and look for commands beginning with start.... Note on systemctl The manual is probably the best place to start, but another few useful associated uses are: # sudo systemctl disable gdm (if you want to subsequently enable say kdm) # sudo systemctl restart sshd (to restart ssh after configuration change) # journalctl (to access runtime journal) ==== Getting a Working Desktop ==== Key functions not installed in the base installation include: *password manager (almost essential for KDE) *printing [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 7164ee052b5a490a7295aec9ff812752eec239c3 0 174 1659 1416 2016-11-17T20:35:03Z Rpeters 14 /* For General Users */added reference to UEFI in 64 bit computers wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == 64-bit Linux is generally recommended for computers that support it - see below for simple tests *it has been in general use for over a decade and is now quite mature *it supports an overwhelming majority of hardware *usually includes the NX feature, that is likely to provide additional protection against malware *many distributions no longer provide 32-bit versions Note that Linux Distributions may variously refer to 64-bit Linux as "x86_64" or "AMD64". The two are equivalent and the latter works on computers that are trade-marked "Intel Inside" as well as AMD-based computers. Computers that came with/were designed for Windows 8 or 10 have UEFI firmware and almost invariably 64 bit CPU. Installing 32-bit Linux on these can be problematic. The exception is for computers having < 2 GB RAM. There a 32-bit distribution should be selected, whether or not the CPU supports 64-bit, but note that this is likely to cause problems in dual-boot arrangements. PC down to 1.2 GB, perhaps 1 GB should run 32-bit desktop oriented distributions adequately. Specialised mini-distributions can work well in 512 MB or less. === Test for CPU Model === ==== 64-bit CPU ==== A simple and reliable way to check whether a CPU supports 64-bit code is to boot a 64-bit distribution *Parted Magic is a suitable distribution for this purpose, because a 64-bit it is only ~ 400 MB download and a 64-bit boot can be selected. *alternatively, any 64-bit Distribution media could be used, if already to hand. **a 64-bit kernel will quickly present an error message along the lines of "unsupported CPU/architecture" if a 64-bit capable CPU is not detected ==== 32-bit CPU ==== If the above test indicates that 64-bit Linux is not supported then most 32-bit Linux should be suitable. *the latter might variously be labelled "x86", "i586", "i686" or frequently no differentiator at all Exceptions where a 32-bit Distribution is unsuitable include: *a small minority are compiled for CPU later than "i686" (Pentium II or equivalent) **these would begin to boot on earlier CPU, but quickly halt and display an error message **beginners are faced with using a different Distribution (or obtaining a later computer) *some Distributions are collated for specific hardware platforms eg eeePC netbooks **these are likely to work incompletely on Desktops as well as other laptops **the purpose of the Distribution would be clearly identified by the provider === Resource Requirements === In the absence of any guidelines from the distributor ==== CPU ==== *any 64-bit CPUI **slower, single core models will perform more slowly *32-bit CPU slower than 1 GHz are generally suited only to specialised "older PC" Desktop oriented distributions ==== RAM ==== Varies substantially with the style of Distribution *2 GB RAM is adequate for any 64-bit Desktop distribution *1.2 GB RAM adequate for 32-bit Desktop distribution *512 MB RAM may be adequate for specialised server/NAS/router distributions **all above assumes installation from DVD/USB stick Installation media **more RAM is required to install from a booted Live distribution ==== Disk Space ==== *HDD smaller than 80 GB SATA are likely to be too slow for acceptable performance --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 17:19, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 9d65b4dbe4edd369d6435381caf355c62d915a65 0 243 1661 2016-11-19T04:40:26Z Rpeters 14 outline of tools available for data & system files wikitext text/x-wiki Various tools for full or partial backup are described in the Software -> Backup section of this wiki. Suggested techniques include: == Data == *rsnapshot or dirvish **provides freqent, space-efficient, reverse-delta incremental backups *snapshot **generally requires that data be on a BTRFS filesystem and uses inbuilt snapshotting function within that filesystem **can require huge storage space *rsync **simple implementations synchronise files in a backup repository with those in a working system ***does not provide incremental, historic view ***rsnapshot/dirvish are a simpler way to provide incremental backups == Operating System == === Minimal Approach === a backup of the folder /etc can assist restoring settings to a '''fresh''' installation of the same distribution and release. === Reverse Delta === rsnapshot or dirvish can be configured to do frequent backups of system as well as data files *frequency could vary between data & system files === Snapshot === this function within BTRFS can produce system and/or data snapshots, at various trigger points === Cloning === This is an "off-line" technique: *does not lend itself to repetitive, incremental backups *might be the best approach for replacing HDD/SSD containing system files Clonzilla is the widely used tool b7eeb59b3e101b82c92ff2c7fe1a35f5ddd78048 0 94 1662 466 2016-11-19T05:58:37Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Technical */additional guideance for reverse-delta routines wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === * === Getting Technical === ==== Dirvish ==== Dirvish takes a similar approach to rsnapshot (see below), but differs in details. A backup regime implemented for one would be difficult to convert to the other. ==== rnapshot ==== ===== rsnapshot for Linux etc ===== rsnapshot is tested on many UNIX-like OS *The philosophy behind rsnapshot is tha backups happen regularly and reliably '''only''' if fully automated **rsnapshot handles the "how, what & where" **cron handles the "when" *but wait, there's more **speed & space efficiency approach that of incremental backups **restores files as easily as from stand-alone backup *best installed from your Operating System's media/repositories - alternatively **http://www.rsnapshot.org/downloads.html *'''essential''' - read their HOWTO '''Suggested approach:''' #get installed, configured and working #*a minimal data set can be configured for test purposes by # ing out many directories listed in the rsnapshot.conf script #*similarly, a small, surplus hard drive can serve as a test target medium - either internal to PC or via USB interface #**NB - the default script puts the backup set on a directory of the system disk #**whilst the simplest, first-stage test that is not a reliable long-term approach #*backing up manually to an external USB/eSATA drive is a simple, second-stage test #**could also suffice for data that changes infrequently and is not particularly valuable #follow HOWTO to automate backups to "local" eg USB drive #follow HOWTO to backup to LAN or remote drive '''Storage Requirements:''' Test/prototype impmentations of rsnapshot/Dirvish could be done from minimal data sets to any available storage media. It is important to accurately estimate the long term storage requirements for production implementations, considering that these tools: *do not compress the backup **nor is it practical to do so using supporting tools *make extensive use of the filesystem function of "hard-links" for space & time efficiency **it is impractical to later copy/clone file sets containing multiple hard-links to larger media *run "du" or use a GUI file manager to calculate the size of the data set to be backed up **have a target medium at least twice that size for data having low rate of change (many home systems ?) **use yet larger target medium if frequent backups or changes in data are anticipated. *if multiple backup sets are required (eg local plus off-site) *#prepare & test a working script ie rsnapshot.conf for one target medium *#*the backup is readily mountable *#*it should immediately be readable (being uncompressed) *#*its lower level directories should accurately reflect that of the source data set *#give the tested script a unique name, related to the target *#make a copy of the script to another name *#*make minor modifications to suit the other target medium *#**alter "snapshot_root" to reflect possibly different mount point *#**set "no_create_root 1" for USB medium *#*test with the other medium *#routinely run '''each''' script whilst its '''specific''' target medium is mounted Similar considerations apply to Dirvish ===== rsnapshot for MacOSX ===== *might be available for later versions - see: http://www.rousette.org.uk/blog/archives/backups-rsync-and-rsnapshot/ ===== rnapshot for Windows ===== *probably not feasible **because Windows filesystems do not provide the required functions *cwRsync goes part way http://www.rsync.net/resources/howto/windows_rsync.html -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] === Strictly for Geeks === * --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]14:37, 26 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] df72e4cc473dd2deec9ec59d67a887fa08d867df 1663 1662 2016-11-19T06:22:59Z Rpeters 14 /* Dirvish */ added link to documentation wikitext text/x-wiki === For General Users === * === Getting Technical === ==== Dirvish ==== Dirvish takes a similar approach to rsnapshot (see below), but differs in details. A backup regime implemented for one would be difficult to convert to the other. http://wiki.dirvish.org/DirvishUsage ==== rnapshot ==== ===== rsnapshot for Linux etc ===== rsnapshot is tested on many UNIX-like OS *The philosophy behind rsnapshot is tha backups happen regularly and reliably '''only''' if fully automated **rsnapshot handles the "how, what & where" **cron handles the "when" *but wait, there's more **speed & space efficiency approach that of incremental backups **restores files as easily as from stand-alone backup *best installed from your Operating System's media/repositories - alternatively **http://www.rsnapshot.org/downloads.html *'''essential''' - read their HOWTO '''Suggested approach:''' #get installed, configured and working #*a minimal data set can be configured for test purposes by # ing out many directories listed in the rsnapshot.conf script #*similarly, a small, surplus hard drive can serve as a test target medium - either internal to PC or via USB interface #**NB - the default script puts the backup set on a directory of the system disk #**whilst the simplest, first-stage test that is not a reliable long-term approach #*backing up manually to an external USB/eSATA drive is a simple, second-stage test #**could also suffice for data that changes infrequently and is not particularly valuable #follow HOWTO to automate backups to "local" eg USB drive #follow HOWTO to backup to LAN or remote drive '''Storage Requirements:''' Test/prototype impmentations of rsnapshot/Dirvish could be done from minimal data sets to any available storage media. It is important to accurately estimate the long term storage requirements for production implementations, considering that these tools: *do not compress the backup **nor is it practical to do so using supporting tools *make extensive use of the filesystem function of "hard-links" for space & time efficiency **it is impractical to later copy/clone file sets containing multiple hard-links to larger media *run "du" or use a GUI file manager to calculate the size of the data set to be backed up **have a target medium at least twice that size for data having low rate of change (many home systems ?) **use yet larger target medium if frequent backups or changes in data are anticipated. *if multiple backup sets are required (eg local plus off-site) *#prepare & test a working script ie rsnapshot.conf for one target medium *#*the backup is readily mountable *#*it should immediately be readable (being uncompressed) *#*its lower level directories should accurately reflect that of the source data set *#give the tested script a unique name, related to the target *#make a copy of the script to another name *#*make minor modifications to suit the other target medium *#**alter "snapshot_root" to reflect possibly different mount point *#**set "no_create_root 1" for USB medium *#*test with the other medium *#routinely run '''each''' script whilst its '''specific''' target medium is mounted Similar considerations apply to Dirvish ===== rsnapshot for MacOSX ===== *might be available for later versions - see: http://www.rousette.org.uk/blog/archives/backups-rsync-and-rsnapshot/ ===== rnapshot for Windows ===== *probably not feasible **because Windows filesystems do not provide the required functions *cwRsync goes part way http://www.rsync.net/resources/howto/windows_rsync.html -[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]13:25, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] === Strictly for Geeks === * --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]14:37, 26 August 2012 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 1668b1d8b13910e4bd0f8b86197a15e47636144e 0 233 1664 1564 2016-12-03T12:31:44Z Rpeters 14 added reference to installation by root & changing dotconf files wikitext text/x-wiki == pdfForts == This is a plugin for Dolphin & Konqueror, which provides simple GUI actions to combine or alter PDF files. Dolphin & Konqueror are applicable to '''Linux''' only. pdfForts does not appear to be packaged by many distributions. Obtain from https://github.com/sjau/pdfForts. It does require several dependencies, which typically are packaged by distributions - these will need to be installed via the package manager. A couple of points to note re the install.sh script *the tarball must be unpacked in a path to which users have '''write''' permission **nevertheless, the script must be run as root *it appears to have been written for KDE4 and does not put files in the correct location for KFrameworks5. see http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/build-linux-productivity-machine-kde-service-menus/. All that is required is to copy files to correct locations: <nowiki>*.sh to /usr/bin/pdfForts</nowiki> <nowiki>*.desktop to /usr/share/kservices5/ServiceMenus/pdfForts</nowiki> Only a few modules have a *.conf file, that also references /usr/share/kde4 * change these references to /usr/share/kservices5/ServiceMenus/pdfForts Following installation, open a new Dolphin window, select one or more PDF files and right-click to see what tasks are availbable from the "Actions" sub-menu. Other Linux file managers, such as Thunar, also have facilities for service menus and pdfForts should be able to work there too. [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] fb3ab21cc8e27e977085b64b95c5435ca746722b 0 92 1666 1665 2016-12-03T22:14:45Z Rpeters 14 /* New Windows 10 Computers */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ Key preliminary steps are: #from Windows #*disable "Fastboot" #*disable "Virtual Memory" #**delete swapper.dat or equiv #(optionally) shrink Windows 10 main partition - see below for link to procedure #*some Linux (openSUSE) will do same as part of their standard install procedure #enter UEFI setup (usually F2 early in the boot process) and #*disable "Secure Boot" - it will be mandatory to add a password to UEFI setup #**'''write''' this password down, in clear text and store in several locations - having the manufacturer reset it could be expensive #*ensure that boot mode is "UEFI" #**do '''not''' change to "Legacy/BIOS" mode #**as a '''reliable''' confirmation that the machine is booting in UEFI mode: #**#download the "rEFInd" dotISO or dot.IMG file from the above site and make CD or USB device from it #**#boot from this CD/USB - invoking F12 at early stage boot/reboot should ensure this #**#display of rEFInd's distinctive series of icons confirms that the machine is in UEFI boot mode #**#failure to boot the CD/USB at all confirms that the machine is in BIOS/Legacy boot mode - and must be reconfigured Here are two links to successful procedures for UEFI & BIOS computers. Although oriented to Ubuntu, analogous steps should work with other Linux: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside.html http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside_8.html Win 10 will probably need to be shrunk: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-shrink-windows-10-to-make-space.html A procedure that might work for openSUSE users is the latter's "instlux" routine. The key to this routine is that it firstly '''disables''' the Windows boot manager, that does not accommodate Linux. See: https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Instlux ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === ==== Computers having UEFI Firmware ==== typically home computers that came with Windows 8.x or generic mainboards of the same era *be aware that business-oriented computers of the same hardware era were often installed with Windows 7, but fall into this category *many are currently (2016) being refurbished and re-sold by major retailers Upgrade to this category of hardware is proving to be the most troublesome Be aware that UEFI & BIOS firmware have many similar screens & settings. Check for this hardware as follows: #invoke UEFI settings, at boot time #if the opening UEFI page contains reference to a "UEFI version number" then the computer has UEFI firmware and falls into this category ==== <span style="color:#005600; background:#black">Computers having BIOS Firmware ==== This upgrade generally proceeds without problems. The following specific combination of factors has been tested: '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the Linux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] b69704bd8bab10c741713ac5395b6d7690b66510 1667 1666 2016-12-03T22:26:33Z Rpeters 14 /* New Windows 10 Computers */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">It might be '''unwise''' to simply delete/overwrite Windows. Some manufacturers provide no alternate mechanism for upgrading firmware (UEFI - which is "work in progress") Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ Key preliminary steps are: #from Windows #*disable "Fastboot" #*disable "Virtual Memory" #**delete swapper.dat or equiv #(optionally) shrink Windows 10 main partition - see below for link to procedure #*some Linux (openSUSE) will do same as part of their standard install procedure #enter UEFI setup (usually F2 early in the boot process) and #*disable "Secure Boot" - it will be mandatory to add a password to UEFI setup #**'''write''' this password down, in clear text and store in several locations - having the manufacturer reset it could be expensive #*ensure that boot mode is "UEFI" #**do '''not''' change to "Legacy/BIOS" mode #**as a '''reliable''' confirmation that the machine is booting in UEFI mode: #**#download the "rEFInd" dotISO or dot.IMG file from the above site and make CD or USB device from it #**#boot from this CD/USB - invoking F12 at early stage boot/reboot should ensure this #**#display of rEFInd's distinctive series of icons confirms that the machine is in UEFI boot mode #**#failure to boot the CD/USB at all confirms that the machine is in Legacy/BIOS boot mode - and must be reconfigured #do a trial boot of your preferred Linux installation medium #*if it fails to boot, then it is probably configured for Legacy/BIOS mode and is '''unsuitable''' #*as of 2016, mainstream Linux and many smaller distro configure their dotISO for both UEFI or Legacy/BIOS boot. Here are two links to successful procedures for UEFI & BIOS computers. Although oriented to Ubuntu, analogous steps should work with other Linux: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside.html http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside_8.html Win 10 will probably need to be shrunk: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-shrink-windows-10-to-make-space.html A procedure that might work for openSUSE users is the latter's "instlux" routine. The key to this routine is that it firstly '''disables''' the Windows boot manager, that does not accommodate Linux. See: https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Instlux ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === ==== Computers having UEFI Firmware ==== typically home computers that came with Windows 8.x or generic mainboards of the same era *be aware that business-oriented computers of the same hardware era were often installed with Windows 7, but fall into this category *many are currently (2016) being refurbished and re-sold by major retailers Upgrade to this category of hardware is proving to be the most troublesome Be aware that UEFI & BIOS firmware have many similar screens & settings. Check for this hardware as follows: #invoke UEFI settings, at boot time #if the opening UEFI page contains reference to a "UEFI version number" then the computer has UEFI firmware and falls into this category ==== <span style="color:#005600; background:#black">Computers having BIOS Firmware ==== This upgrade generally proceeds without problems. The following specific combination of factors has been tested: '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the Linux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 670102fa5b2c2e1376e611cedd89f2f11b393cc2 1668 1667 2016-12-03T22:28:13Z Rpeters 14 /* New Windows 10 Computers */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">It might be '''unwise''' to simply delete/overwrite Windows. Some manufacturers provide no alternate mechanism for upgrading firmware (UEFI - which is "work in progress") Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ Key preliminary steps are: #from Windows #*disable "Fastboot" #*disable "Virtual Memory" #**delete swapper.dat or equiv #(optionally) shrink Windows 10 main partition - see below for link to procedure #*some Linux (openSUSE) will do same as part of their standard install procedure #enter UEFI setup (usually F2 early in the boot process) and #*disable "Secure Boot" - it will be mandatory to add a password to UEFI setup #**'''write''' this password down, in clear text and store in several locations - having the manufacturer reset it could be expensive #*ensure that boot mode is "UEFI" #**do '''not''' change to "Legacy/BIOS" mode #**as a '''reliable''' confirmation that the machine is booting in UEFI mode: #**#download the "rEFInd" dotISO or dot.IMG file from the above site and make CD or USB media from it #**#boot from this CD/USB - invoking F12 at early stage boot/reboot should ensure this #**#display of rEFInd's distinctive series of icons confirms that the machine is in UEFI boot mode #**#failure to boot the CD/USB at all confirms that the machine is in Legacy/BIOS boot mode - and must be reconfigured #do a trial boot of your preferred Linux installation medium #*if it fails to boot, then it is probably configured for Legacy/BIOS mode and is '''unsuitable''' #*as of 2016, mainstream Linux and many smaller distro configure their dotISO for both UEFI or Legacy/BIOS boot. Here are two links to successful procedures for UEFI & BIOS computers. Although oriented to Ubuntu, analogous steps should work with other Linux: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside.html http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside_8.html Win 10 will probably need to be shrunk: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-shrink-windows-10-to-make-space.html A procedure that might work for openSUSE users is the latter's "instlux" routine. The key to this routine is that it firstly '''disables''' the Windows boot manager, that does not accommodate Linux. See: https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Instlux ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === ==== Computers having UEFI Firmware ==== typically home computers that came with Windows 8.x or generic mainboards of the same era *be aware that business-oriented computers of the same hardware era were often installed with Windows 7, but fall into this category *many are currently (2016) being refurbished and re-sold by major retailers Upgrade to this category of hardware is proving to be the most troublesome Be aware that UEFI & BIOS firmware have many similar screens & settings. Check for this hardware as follows: #invoke UEFI settings, at boot time #if the opening UEFI page contains reference to a "UEFI version number" then the computer has UEFI firmware and falls into this category ==== <span style="color:#005600; background:#black">Computers having BIOS Firmware ==== This upgrade generally proceeds without problems. The following specific combination of factors has been tested: '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the Linux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 89c39b12b0f74780408d7dccaece4894a6e2df84 1669 1668 2016-12-03T22:29:44Z Rpeters 14 /* New Windows 10 Computers */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. Outcome is '''very''' dependent on version of Windows === <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''Windows 10'' === Should '''not''' be attempted by General Users *although viable procedures have been reported for computers having '''existing''' Win 10 installations **Windows 10 '''does not''' boot immediately following installation of Linux and requires '''Getting Technical''' to rectify The only viable alternative for General Users appears to be using a live Linux distribution see [[Evaluation]] === Windows 8.x === The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a''' single''' hard disk drive in the computer *generally works reliably === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Windows < 8'' === Although this installation is reliable, as per Windows 8.x above, <span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''''It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical [[Category:Technical Info]] == Getting Technical == === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''New Windows 10 Computers'' === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">It might be '''unwise''' to simply delete/overwrite Windows. Some manufacturers provide no alternate mechanism for upgrading firmware (UEFI - which is "work in progress") Such computers invariably have UEFI firmware and "secure boot" enabled. The following link provides general guidance on this process http://www.rodsbooks.com/linux-uefi/ Key preliminary steps are: #from Windows #*disable "Fastboot" #*disable "Virtual Memory" #**delete swapper.dat or equiv #(optionally) shrink Windows 10 main partition - see below for link to procedure #*some Linux (openSUSE) will do same as part of their standard install procedure #enter UEFI setup (usually F2 early in the boot process) and #*disable "Secure Boot" - it will be mandatory to add a password to UEFI setup #**'''write''' this password down, in clear text and store in several locations - having the manufacturer reset it could be expensive #*ensure that boot mode is "UEFI" #**do '''not''' change to "Legacy/BIOS" mode #**as a '''reliable''' confirmation that the machine is booting in UEFI mode: #**#download the "rEFInd" dotISO or dot.IMG file from the above site and make CD or USB media from it #**#boot from this CD/USB - invoking F12 at early stage boot/reboot should ensure this #**#display of rEFInd's distinctive series of icons confirms that the machine is in UEFI boot mode #**#failure to boot the CD/USB at all confirms that the machine is in Legacy/BIOS boot mode - and must be reconfigured #do a trial boot of your preferred Linux installation medium #*if it fails to boot, then it is probably configured for Legacy/BIOS mode only and is '''unsuitable''' #*as of 2016, mainstream Linux and many smaller distro configure their dotISO to work in either UEFI or Legacy/BIOS boot. Here are two links to successful procedures for UEFI & BIOS computers. Although oriented to Ubuntu, analogous steps should work with other Linux: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside.html http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux-alongside_8.html Win 10 will probably need to be shrunk: http://www.everydaylinuxuser.com/2015/11/how-to-shrink-windows-10-to-make-space.html A procedure that might work for openSUSE users is the latter's "instlux" routine. The key to this routine is that it firstly '''disables''' the Windows boot manager, that does not accommodate Linux. See: https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Instlux ==== Linux Mint 18 ==== #invoke UEFI settings and '''disable''' "secure boot" #*although the procedure works, for major Linux distributions, without this change, it provides better long-term flexibility - see above link #boot from Linux Mint USB/DVD #select (the somewhat confusingly named) installation option 1 "install in boot partition alongside Windows" #on first reboot, Windows only is bootable #reboot, invoke UEFI settings again #amend UEFI boot order to place Windows '''second''' (Ubuntu/Mint first) #*subsequent boots should now present a Grub 2 menu #*either Linux or Windows should be able to be selected and boot correctly #*any additional OS need to be included in the grub.cfg file for Mint YMMV with other Linux distributions. Although installation is generally successful, one OS might not boot: *invoking firmware level boot menu (often F2 on OEM computers or F11 on generic) should enable either to be booted *as a last resort, Linux Mint could be installed and then replaced with the preferred Linux. === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows 10 '' === ==== Computers having UEFI Firmware ==== typically home computers that came with Windows 8.x or generic mainboards of the same era *be aware that business-oriented computers of the same hardware era were often installed with Windows 7, but fall into this category *many are currently (2016) being refurbished and re-sold by major retailers Upgrade to this category of hardware is proving to be the most troublesome Be aware that UEFI & BIOS firmware have many similar screens & settings. Check for this hardware as follows: #invoke UEFI settings, at boot time #if the opening UEFI page contains reference to a "UEFI version number" then the computer has UEFI firmware and falls into this category ==== <span style="color:#005600; background:#black">Computers having BIOS Firmware ==== This upgrade generally proceeds without problems. The following specific combination of factors has been tested: '''if''' existing Windows 7 '''and''' firmware is BIOS '''and''' partition table(s) are MBR(DOS) '''Then''' it is reported that an upgrade to Windows 10 can dual-boot. Examples include: Desktop running separate HDD for Linux and Windows. *BIOS normally boots to the Linux HDD, which is running OpenSUSE Leap42.1 **and from which Windows 10 can be booted via GRUB 2 *During Windows upgrades, disconnect Linux HDD and set BIOS to boot to Windows HDD. Although not tested, it seems likely that the above would also work with the Linux (only) HDD partitioned GPT Laptops & netbooks running Ubuntu 16.4 (YMMV with derivatives) *Basic setup is for BIOS to boot to the Windows bootloader. **GRUB 2, must be installed in the partition containing Linux. (most installers will do that) *A free utility called EasyBCD is required to modify the Windows bootloader to include entries for other operating systems **this utility must be rerun following every Windows upgrade. One of the many videos on this subject is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dwwSSg-kJM === <span style="color:#e57c09; background:#black">''Upgrades to Windows #> 8.1'' === to be advised Issues can often be minimised by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === Upgrades to Windows 7 === There is one known issue when Windows is on either a '''separate HDD''' or '''same HDD'''. This also prevents Linux from booting before the Win 10 upgrade. Different workarounds are given in the link: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/kb3033929-does-not-install-multi-boot-win7-linux/8f35f8f8-c0b2-461a-a8aa-4bbf16c49920?auth=1 === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **contermporary Linux avert this by allocating a unique UUID to the drive and booting/mounting via that ID === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to a second hDD *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == [[Category: Technical Info]] 79933daa7a4098bd7a089cd7818e3036587bdff3 2 95 1670 1524 2017-02-02T21:10:35Z Rpeters 14 bootable USB wikitext text/x-wiki = Projector = Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays *The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators *projectors have many fewer megapixels than do laptops and medium to large monitors == For General Users == Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. Additionally, flat panel displays, whether generated via LCD, LED or DLP, produce clearest display only at their native resolution === Projectors for Presentations === Image clarity is paramount for still images as used with presentations *the human eye cannot resolve high resolution images at the distance typically used with projection screens #ascertain the aspect ratio of the projector *if documentation is not available, the ratio of the plain, white image produced when a computer is not connected is a good guide. #ascertain the native resolution of the projector. In the absence of documentation: *1024 x768 is typical for 4:3 ratio projectors *1280 x 800 is typical for 16:10 ratios *1280 x 720 is typical for 16:9 ratios #from the computer's Control Panel go to Display and set: *resolution to same a projector *tick the box "duplicate/clone these displays" #click "save" and the desktop should be duplicated on the projector Display on the laptop/PC will be less than optimum *"wide-screen" displays may have unlit areas at sides of display *may be less clear as a result of lower resolution The above are unavoidable compromises to obtaining clearest display on the projector ==== Common Problems ==== *display on the projector is a plain desktop wallpaper without icons or windows for apps **This is caused by not having the displays duplicated **revisit Display setup on the computer *"wide-screen" display on a 4:3 ratio projector **this is a faulty configuration, which results in less clear display and needs to be corrected **revisit Display setup on the computer **if still not corrected, this likely results from default settings in the projector #activate projector's on-screen display #navigate to aspect ratio #change from "auto" or 16:9 to 4:3 First the good news: Virtually any computer having two display outputs can be made to drive two displays (whether monitor(s) or projector(s) - '''after a fashion''' Now the bad news: The potential combinations of hardware and software capabilities are huge. *occasional users should get adequate result by following the simple guidelines below *regular users might want to follow the more technical guidelines to try to optimise the displays somewhat Be aware that projectors and monitors have two fundamental differences as external displays #The majority of projectors, particularly those oriented to "home theatre" are still manufactured with 4:3 ratio display generators #projectors have many fewer megapixels than laptops and medium to large monitors === Projectors for Presentations === ==== Preliminary Configuration for Laptops ==== === Projectors for Presentations === === Projectors for Home Theatre Use === The majority are still 4:3 native ratio *but have the capability to accept 16:9 ratio input, typically to support movies **many default to this ratio and require no reconfiguration **will display 16:9 ratio input via "letterboxing", ie blanking out the top & bottom 100 or so rows of pixels and displaying image in reduced size ***uses more than the native number of pixels and causes some reduction in image clarity ***which is not significant for movies ***but noticeable with still images (as in presentations) Up-market projectors are now being manufactured with 16:9 ratio display generators == Getting Technical == Be aware that 3 ratios are in common use for displays - 4:3 and 16:9 for consumer grade devices plus business grade monitors & projectors that support the 16:10 wide-screen ratio *better quality 16:9 and 16:10 displays might present the complete, alternative image correctly via blanking some rows or columns of pixels with slight "letterboxing" or blank right & left margins *others will distort the image slightly to occupy the full visible area All digital displays, whether LCD, LED, Plasma or DLP provide the sharpest image only at their native resolution Linux & iOS support different resolutions on the two displays *low end hardware might not support this well, if at all *if the resolutions selected have differing vertical resolutions on the two displays, then the bottom panel used by many desktops will be absent on the shorter display **might need to compromise with either ***identical vertical resolutions or ***setting the primary display to the higher vertical resolution == Strictly for Geeks == == For General Users == The idea of having both Windows and Linux installed on a computer and being able to select one at boot time appeals to many who are trying, or migrating to, Linux. *Windows own bootloader cannot boot Linux **a Linux bootloader must be used with dual-booting The better known Linux distributions will set this up automatically, during installation to a '''single''' hard disk drive in the computer *<span style="color:#ef2108; background:#black">''' It is likely to cease functioning following the next update of Windows'''</span> and **restoring dual-boot requires Getting Technical Keep at least one emergency boot medium handy. See [[Emergency_Boot - Including for Dual-Boot]] == Getting Technical == The above problem can usually be obviated by having additional hard disk(s) in the computer. This is not an expensive option, given current HDD prices. === USB Drive === ==== Pros ==== *easily added *no change to internal HDD ==== Cons ==== *Linux relies on the absolute order of storage devices detected by the computer's firmware **plugging in (say) a uSB memory drive, may upset the booting **many bootloaders will identify partitions via UUID, to overcome this limitation === Internal HDD === *ensures permanent order of drives === Installation === *mainstream Linux will allow installation to== Strictly for Geeks == a second HDD === Selecting Boot Device === The selection of "drive" and hence OS is done at POST stage and depends on type of firmware in the computer see [[Booting from Removable Media]] == Strictly for Geeks == *the bootloader must also be installed to the second HDD, in this technique **can require "drilling down" the installation options --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]]11:28, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] == Bootloaders == === Elilo === Only for computers having EFI firmware Fairly simple and reliable *but requires a running Linux to generate its config file, in advance === GRUB Legacy (aka 0.97 ) === A simple, reliable bootloader, although being phased out and no longer maintained. Use situations: *have only Linux on /ext(n) partitions and (maybe) Windows === GRUB (aka GRUB 2 ) === GRUB 2 is now the most frequently used bootloader in Linux, but has many remaining issues. Some work-arounds: ==== "on-the-fly" Mode ==== GRUB 2 relies on a pre-defined config file /boot/grub(2)/grub.cfg. If this is not located, for any reason, GRUB 2 may boot to a grub> prompt. To boot from here use the following commands, substituting relevant drive and partition numbers: ::grub> set root='hd0,gpt10' ::grub> linux /boot/vmlinuz root=/dev/sda10 ::grub> initrd /boot/initrd ::grub> bootBlockquote</blockquote notes *drive numbers start from 0 *must specify whether partitioned mbr or gpt *set root refers to location of partition containing /boot for the operating system to be booted **which will often also be the root file system for Linux **or merely the system partition for Win **partition numbers start from 1 (unlike in GRUB legacy) *this procedure is easiest if kernel & initrd have easily remembered names **either soft-link generic names or **press TAB to see possible names *ctrl-x or F10 may be pressed in lieu the "boot" command The above procedure may be modified to cater for the situation where the menu '''is''' presented but the desired OS is not included or fails to boot. either *press e to edit a menu item or *press Esc to get to command line, then proceed as above. ==== Menu mode ==== See GRUB 2 downloadable manual or use "info grub2" to obtain details. Consistent themes amongst various documentation for GRUB 2 are that: *it is unreliable beyond the basics *OS-probe module is particularly so *not putting bootstrap in MBR (protective MBR in case of GPT) will be problematic Indeed, "info grub2" recommends avoid all automated installs & configs by distro. Instead, manually grub2-install then write a simple, static /boot/grub2/grub.cfg. See below for outline of this procedure. As of Jan 2014 and following application of two patches to GRUB in openSUSE 13.1, its GRUB has been brought to ver 2.00-39.4.1. The automated process works well enough for most Linux plus Windows It failed to find ArchLinux - which uses unusual names for kernels & initrd. Simple work-around for that is to add a 90_persistent section at the end of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg <nowiki>### BEGIN /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> menuentry 'ArchLinux (<your descriptor>) { set root='hd<n>,gpt<n>' linux /boot/vmlinux-linux root=/dev/sd<x><n> initrd /boot/initramfs-linux.img } <nowiki>### END /etc/grub.d/90_persistent ###</nowiki> Essentially, the 90_persistent section gets copied verbatim during any subsequent manual or automated run of grub2-mkconfig. Note that this feature might be unique to openSUSE The curly braces are essential and enclose GRUB2 commands. This was for a HDD partitioned GPT. replace partition number with mbr<n> if applicable. Multiple menuentries could be put in 90_persistent to cope with multiple Linuxes. � It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php?title=User:Rpeters&action=submit#on in GRUB legacy. press 'e' to edit an entry. It's also possible to add an entry by pressing "c". In this mode only the 3 commands are input, followed by a fourth command 'boot'CTL-x at the Someone asked how to increase the font size in boot menu. The manual grub.cfg essentially does that by using whatever font will fit on the default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware default screen resolution. Alternatively, one could try to make sense of the "loadfont" parameters in /etc/grub.d/00_header. Wheras GRUB legacy uses similar syntax in command and menu mode, GRUB 2 uses somewhat different syntax in the two modes. ==== Rescue mode ==== An ISO image can be prepared, that is tailored to the OS on a specific computer. See above documentation for details on preparation of this image. It can be tested by "dd" to a USB memory device. === ReFind === Only for computers having EFI firmware *a CD can be downloaded, to test, if uncertain of firmware === Syslinux === A proven bootloader, that continues being developed and maintained. Main limitations: *can't directly boot programs on other than its own partition, resulting in the need for work-arounds: **either chain load all but one OS or **put the boot code for each OS in a different sub-directory on the syslinux partition == DOS USB == === For General Users === ==== Purpose ==== The main requirement for a USB memory device that boots to DOS operating system arises when a BIOS/Firmware update of a computer is required. It is advisable to use a new, or little used memory device, because any error in reading the BIOS/Firmware code during the actual update is likely to result in an unusable computer. USB "thumb" drives could be used. SD cards, which can be removed and stored in a secure place, might be more applicable. ==== Procedure ==== HP provide two techniques for producing DOS USB sticks. Both place utility software on a Windows computer, in order to generate the bootable stick - see "Getting Technical" below, if Windows is not available. Instructions are provided on the HP support site for installing these utilities to Windows and creating bootable USB stick(s) *HP's generic utility HPUSBFW is not self contained but is more flexible. **it produces a mimimal DOS bootable USB stick containing only nnnDOS.SYS & COMMAND.COM **the user can then add relevant firmware and flashing utility **although it has an option for formatting to FAT 32 only FAT actually works **requires one of HP's "Softpacs" (firmware updates) for one of their recent commercial notebooks, from which to obtain the Windows utility program, plus **also requires FreeDOS (which can be downloaded at no cost in the form of fd11src.iso from http://www.freedos.org/download/) *those wanting to upgrade the firmware in a HP computer might find the second tool more suitable. HP provide some of their firmware updates as Windows dotEXE files, which: **install a utility program to Windows and then have facility called ROMPAQ for creating a bootable DOS on a USB device of not greater than 2 GB (FAT 16) **automatically adds the firmware and flashing utility to the USB stick **the naming convention for these files is SPnnnnn.exe Note that in order to use the former, generic technique, general users would need to burn the above ISO image to CD. Those not familiar with ISO images should read http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Using_dotISO_Files The step of burning the ISO image can be avoided - see "Getting Technical" below === Getting Techhnical === The techniques above contain the Windows version of Syslinux in the Windows software package and install the former as a bootloader on the USB device. The Syslinux bootloader can also be added to a USB memory device via Linux. Generic instructions are at the following site, from which (superceded versions of) the code are also available http://goebelmeier.de/bootstick/ The following would need to be downloaded to obtain up-to-date software: http://www.freedos.org/download/fd11src.iso https://www.kernel.org/pub/linux/utils/boot/syslinux/6.xx/ Syslinux will already be installed on many Linux systems. However, Ubuntu and openSUSE might produce a USB stick that invokes graphics at boot time and it is undesirable to have superfluous code on a device that will be used for firmware upgrades. FreeDOS supports FAT 32 and consequently the above procedure should also work on FAT 32 formatted sticks of > 2 GB capacity. '''''PRINTING VIA NETWORK''''' '''PRINTING VIA CUPS''' == Overview == CUPS is not applicable to Windows. Windows users see [[Printing via Network]] CUPS now the default print sub-system in most Operating Systems - Android, ChromeOS, MacOS, Linux and BSD. Its use can enable printing over a LAN to be achieved relatively simply, often requiring: *no additional installation of software or "drivers" *only simple configuration changes == Applicability == === Android & iOS === Typically these require an App to be downloaded from the relevant Store and connect with WiFi enabled printers. === Linux & OSX === Both use CUPS and can be configured as below. == For General Users == === Definitions === Those acquainted with client/server model can skip to sub-item "CUPS Versioning Issues" *"client computer" means the computer/device from which the print job will be generated *it must have CUPS client installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux *it need not have any printer drivers installed **indeed, it is less confusing if it does not *"server computer" means the computer controlling the printer. It can be: *for network printers, which are connected directly to a network, any computer on the network, having the relevant CUPS print drivers installed **network may be wired, WiFi or bluetooth **it is perfectly acceptable to configure several computers to use a particular network printer *for USB/parallel attached printers, the computer to which the printer is attached **it must have CUPS server installed, which is the default condition for Max OSX and Linux **the relevant printer must appear in its "Printers" list, and be working **the computet must be posered on, to enable printing, although logon won't usually be required . === Prerequisites === This guide assumes that CUPS is installed and generally functioning on both computers. The screen shots are from CUPS version 1.4.x/1.5.x. Versions 1.6 et seq have similar menus, but fewer options, with some changes having to be effected via computer's Control Panel instead. === CUPS Versioning Issues === Firstly it is essential to ascertain which release of CUPS is in use, because versions 1.6 and later are largely incompatible with earlier releases. If uncertain, then on '''each''' machine involved in the network printing browse to: https://localhost:631/admin [[Image:Cups_printers_listing.png]] the release number should be displayed in the title bar *CUPS <= 1.5.4 uses substantially different process from 1.6 and later **printing between machines mixing these versions is complicated. see below for guidelines, if unavoidable **as CUPS <= 1.5.4 is now used mainly in older OS, there is a case for upgrading the OS on such machines to a current release. ***it is not feasible for General Users to upgrade the version of CUPS '''without''' upgrading the whole OS *CUPS 1.6 and later *Devices sold by Apple Inc can deploy proprietary extensions to CUPS. Consequently, some features may not work as expected, if the print job is sent to a printer that is controlled by another version of CUPS As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client === CUPS mixed networks <= 1.5.4 plus 1.6 et seq === Network printing in this environment is more complex. For a guide to procedures see: http://doc.opensuse.org/release-notes/x86_64/openSUSE/Leap/42.1/ Sample screen images displayed in the following sections are similar for CUPS 1.4 and later. === CUPS 1.6 and later === Later releases of CUPS impose greater network security. Default settings vary with system and may require some troubleshooting if client and server have different origin. The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 *openSUSE Leap *openSUSE Tumbleweed Other environments may require changes For a quick test, from the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: ====Temporary Fix ==== The following procedure is adequate for portable machines that are away from home base. It might also suffice for other computers that are rarely used to print. *does not require Admin privileges on most systems *but '''does require ''' IP address or host name of the machine sharing printers *settings '''cannot''' be saved [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png |left|frame|]]The Print Settings applet is usually accessible from the main menu and typically has the icon at left Start this applet to get its main window as below [[Image:Print_settings_localhost.png |none]] Pull down the Server tab and select Connect, to get the following pop-up dialog [[Image:CUPS_server_connect.png |left]] Change the name of the server to hostname or IP address of that required and click on Connect From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: Main window should now display all discovered printers on the network [[Image:Print_settings_discovered.png |none|frame]] From the client computer, open any page in a browser or editor and select "Print" *if any of the networked printers can be selected then no further configuration is required **if not then: If printers are discovered then any newly opened app eg LibreOffice, browsers, editors etc should be able to select and print to one of the printers If no printers are discovered then changes in configuration are required, as below ==== Retained Configuration ==== Neither of the two tools widely deployed for administering CUPS are able to make permanent changes to printer discovery. Both amend the same underling config files: *system-config-printer (aka Print Settings) *the URL https://<localhost or URL>:631 Some of the changes required below need to be made by editing conf files and executing commands at a terminal === Summary of Changes === Several settings might need to be changed to print via network - in summary: *amend firewall settings, on both ends, if necessary **firewall on router should '''not''' be altered *set client to use printers shared by another machine on the network **in many installations this suffices to get printing working via network *activate cups-browsed service via system services (systemd) on both ends **only in deployments using this separate service *set CUPS on server to share printers but only to the local network **often the default setting It might pay to configure the client computer first, because other machines are often set to share their printers to the local network. *must be done via Control Panel or a combination of editing files then executing commands The Print Settings applet typically has the icon [[Image:Print_Settings_Applet.png | Print_Settings_Applet]] From the client computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *configure "Printers" to use network printers **note that in many Control Panel apps this item is merely a link the applet "Print Settings", which does not allow changes to print server to be retained. In cases where Print Settings is the only tool available: *temporary changes to select print server can be made from the applet *permanent changes need to be made manually, as follows: #modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) *enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" **not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) #modify the file /etc/cups/client.conf**does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server *on many systems this will '''not''' exist by default, but creating it, pointing to a valid IP address that is sharing printers, is usually sufficient to enable the client to use shared printers. Only one line is required in this file: <nowiki>ServerName <IP address of machine sharing printers></nowiki> *one only servername is used **where multiple appear the '''last''' is used **many systems default to "localhost" or /var/run/cups/cups.sock ***can be retained, provided not the last listed **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server Some distro are issued as specific desktop (client) or server releases. The desktop releases might not provide for changed settings to be saved. That allows eg a laptop away from its home base to print, without disturbing longer term settings. From the server computer, use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact menus and terminology will vary): *firewall on server must have port 631 open *modify "system services" (exact terminology will vary) **enable '''and''' activate "cups-browsed" ***not identified as a separate service in some distro (and then not required) From the server computer, use any browser to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system **using protocols DNSSD & CUPS *restrict sharing to "Local Network" **could also be set as IP address eg 192.168.0.0/24 *Allow remote administration It is inadvisable to enable *Allow printing from the Internet*print via network [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary Then click on the "Manage Printers" button in the same tab, select the relevant printer and pull down the "Administration" menu #select "modify printer" then click the "continue" button to proceed to its second screen [[Image:Cups_printer_network.png]] [[Image:Cups_printer_configuration2.png]] 22 #ensure that "share this printer" is checked #it will be helpful to make the "Location" the name of the computer controlling this printer #click "continue" until the process completes **does not require a web browser, which might not be present on a server ==== Quicktest ==== Both computers must be connecting to the local LAN via wired or wireless interface. A quick test is to start a web browser and check that the Internet is accessible. Provided that network access is working: #Start a text editor (kate, leafpad etc) #*if the application is already running then it may need to be shutdown and restarted to recognize newly available printers #Open a new document and type a few words #From the file menu, select "Print" #Select the relevant printer from the drop-down dialog #*which should list all shared printers on the LAN #click on the properties/settings button #ensure that the key settings are suitable eg A4 paper size, portrait orientation #click OK/print ==== Working Environments ==== The following client systems automatically discover network printers, from default configurations *Linux Mint 17.3 Mate ==== Preliminary Troubleshooting ==== ''1. No printers listed in the print dialog'' This problem frequently is the result of a firewall running on one or both computers. Network printing can work only if either: *firewalls on each computer allow port 631 through or *Ethernet zones are set as "trusted/internal" in the firewalls on each computer Only printers powered up will appear in the list *confirm that the relevant printer is powered on *if it is attached to another PC via parallel or USB cable then that PC must also be powered on **(it is not necessary to log in to the sharing PC) ''2. Print Job accepted but no output on Printer'' This can be a result of many possible causes. Some simple checks: #is CUPS known to be installed and working on the computer from which the text was created ?. #Can it print to some printer at its home base ? #does a similar print job created on the server computer give output on the printer ? ''3. Print Job rejected by Server'' *possible permissions issue - check thehat: **printer is set as "share this printer" on the server ***follow "modify this printer" dialog *possibly incompatible CUPS verions **most suitable arrangement is for all machines using CUPS #< 1.6 ***achievable only by upgrading the complete OS ***a new version of the driver for '''each''' printer is required at the server end, to support PDF print jobs ***if a binary driver, from the manufacturer, was previously used, check whether a driver is now included in CUPS or, failing that, whether an updated driver can be obtained from the manufacturer ***following the upgrade, follow the "modify this printer" dialog for '''each''' printer and select the most recent PPD file. **on older installations, it might be necessary to keep all machines at CUPS version #< 1.5.4 If all else fails, then the CUPS Administration page has a button "View Error Log". Text towards the end of that file may give some clues. === CUPS <= 1.5.4 === With this version, a (different) CUPS browsing module is usually enabled by default. Simpler configuration changes usually suffice. At the server end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio buttons to: *Share printers connected to this system At the workstation/client end, browse to https://localhost:631/admin and activate radio button: "Show printers shared by other systems" [[Image:Cups_admin_home.png]] then click "Change Settings" button to save any changes, if necessary The troubleshooting tips for version 1.6 and above still apply === Getting Techhnical === As a general rule, the print server should have a version not earlier than the client *Version 1.5 of CUPS is likely to produce a print job as a PDF file, whereas version 1.3 & 1.4 servers accept only PostScript files The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> Save changes It will then be necessary to use the Admin tab and select "manage printers" -> "Modify Printer", then modify '''each''' printer to == Situation ==be shared by ticking the box "Share this Printer" Often the above steps suffice to make printers visible to a client machine. If not, then the following additional steps might be required, at the '''client''' end: Use "Control Panel" to set the following, if available (exact terminology will vary): *print via network *allow printing to local network only eg 192.168.0.0/24, for non-portable machines == Getting Techhnical == The above changes can also be implemented via a combination of editing config files and commands via CLI. At the server end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> 2 <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> At the client end: #ensure that /etc/cups/cups-browsed.conf includes the statements *BrowseRemoteProtocols DNSSD,CUPS2 *BrowseProtocols DNSSD CUPS *BrowseAllow 192.168.1.0/24 (or network address your LAN, if not this) #Log to a terminal as root and execute: <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service enable</nowiki> <nowiki># systemctl cups-browsed.service start</nowiki> === Strictly for Geeks === = Bootable Media = == USB == USB devices either "thumb" drives or card readers, usually for SD or microSD cards, have several advantages for booting OS: *generally much faster than DVD *bootable from UEFI firmware, whereas DVD might not be *higher capacity *reusable Special techniques are required to prepare bootable USB devices. == For General Users == if the ISO image has been prepared as an '''isohybrid''', then the following tools can readily put it on USB device: *http://wiki.rosalab.com/en/index.php/ROSA_ImageWriter **this tool is also available for MacOS and Windows *https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Using_SUSE_Studio_Image_Writer A previously popular tool was "unetbootin". However this '''breaks''' isohybrids and should be used only with non-hybridised ISO. == Getting Techhnical == It is now possible to put multiple bootable OS on a single USB device and then boot any from UEFI or non-UEFI firmware. This requires working knowledge of the boot parameters as well as running a number of command line programs. Detailed instructions are at: ---[[-[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 18:02, 18 August 2012 (EST)]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] 09:05, 7 October 2013 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 407b3340a09ddccdcb0a29cf6cf6ffdffb2e3ccb 0 112 1671 1591 2017-04-26T14:09:44Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2016 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-T (Group T the next course has places available. More courses are planned and will be posted here by end-May 2017. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Training Room 35, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 41 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' First Series - Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July - ending 17 August. **'''When:''' Second Series - Held over 6 sessions on Thursday afternoons 2:00pm to 4:00pm commencing 14 July - ending 18 August. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 30 May == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 6b6486f7062d775b8b8cf1185618357f35db9972 1672 1671 2017-04-26T14:12:50Z Mikec 31 /* Courses for 2016 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-T (Group T the next course has places available. More courses are planned and will be posted here by end-May 2017. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Training Room 35, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 41 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' First Series - Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July - ending 17 August. **'''When:''' Second Series - Held over 6 sessions on Thursday afternoons 2:00pm to 4:00pm commencing 14 July - ending 18 August. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 30 May == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ecb674c58be3d30b43cf70acb7d880c47143841f 1673 1672 2017-04-28T01:29:05Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-T (Group T the next course has places available. More courses are planned and will be posted here by end-May 2017. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *THIS COURSE IS RUN AT THE U3A FACILITY at 41 TEMPLETON STREET,COOK, AND IS A JOINT PCUG/U3A COURSE MEETING ON WEDNESDAY MORNINGS (DATES BELOW). *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' First Series - Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July - ending 17 August. **'''When:''' Second Series - Held over 6 sessions on Thursday afternoons 2:00pm to 4:00pm commencing 14 July - ending 18 August. **'''Where:''' 41 Templeton Street, Cook. **'''Fee:''' $20 inclusive for room rent, refreshment and course documentation **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 30 May == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 85d00ed60e291f2f91d252d5af3208bdec803834 1674 1673 2017-05-01T07:19:15Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-T (Group T the next course has places available. More courses are planned and will be posted here by end-May 2017. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' First Series - Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July - ending 17 August. **'''When:''' Second Series - Held over 6 sessions on Thursday afternoons 2:00pm to 4:00pm commencing 14 July - ending 18 August. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee:''' **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d27a25f765a2fd314ad583c5a4033a0316edbf99 1675 1674 2017-05-01T07:20:38Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-T (Group T the next course has places available. More courses are planned and will be posted here by end-May 2017. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 13 July - ending 17 August. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee:''' **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d01a4088d77a35f70ddf45793aa45038e6062318 1676 1675 2017-05-01T07:26:14Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC-T (Group T the next course has places available. More courses are planned and will be posted here by end-May 2017. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee:''TBA' **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 83a834fb9ab47c65fba20bdfab520922192c53ce 1677 1676 2017-05-17T04:19:52Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee:''TBA' **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 321beee084890934dceaac1177b12dac6713b500 1678 1677 2017-05-18T12:48:05Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee:''TBA' **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 54050a4c08a9069c3175107af50b1c28122b3740 1679 1678 2017-05-18T12:49:43Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee:''TBA' **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 44ade5567f8cef0570dfb727695de1a81dd2fefb 1680 1679 2017-05-23T04:16:05Z Quanro 13 /* EXCEL - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee:''TBA' **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 0d3141ca9c599933cb97cc6f0a092b27e2b5f32d 1681 1680 2017-05-23T04:16:35Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007). Basic familiarity with Windows and Microsoft Office screens helpful but not essential. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. ***There will be six sessions of two hours with some flexible time at the end available for discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 10:00am to 12 noon commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee:''TBA' **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 32f5da0f8488fae710046e8b23657d4f17173467 1682 1681 2017-05-23T05:11:53Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will elso be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer ie you can open, close save and copy files. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d1992a415edc31cdbfcb89745bae3800d2a6345c 1683 1682 2017-05-23T05:13:28Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will elso be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together ***The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer ie you can open, close save and copy files. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f536b1e2f596c5724e92bc878d5c3c9ec82f079f 1684 1683 2017-05-23T05:13:58Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will elso be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together *The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer ie you can open, close save and copy files. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f03a54e16af772e799d402a31af25c62d663705d 1685 1684 2017-05-23T05:14:36Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will elso be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer ie you can open, close save and copy files. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 020eacddbdc4ea99ef85e0d74b8302c7d75a7169 1686 1685 2017-05-23T05:15:11Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will elso be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer ie you can open, close save and copy files. **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] c1ada128baf66d6236f7e031ec9a92affebb7c92 1687 1686 2017-05-23T05:15:47Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will elso be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 69d3c45737d2af9c03283e915c8f25cd94ef1d53 1688 1687 2017-05-23T05:16:39Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software, that can make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will elso be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b1ff80ecd98070108c87f66564915825ce90b2cf 1689 1688 2017-05-23T05:18:32Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will elso be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 4f930133389dcd3f8004ca008f21d617564ac553 1690 1689 2017-05-23T05:20:17Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 0b581b67b657cf3bcde4d432f609ef496b89a71d 1691 1690 2017-05-23T05:20:46Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 8d80f88ee1fff806766e07804321fa7bc9cfb465 1692 1691 2017-05-23T05:22:41Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:'''Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] eccbd7519afc34c85a4979f6e5bc901a161ac1d2 1693 1692 2017-05-23T05:23:12Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee: $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] e4422f4e31d44f019bdb3b7a3b27b2b220ef6a29 1694 1693 2017-05-23T05:23:52Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of memn **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 66c8731dfa100a900a3d51220a299e45678515b6 1695 1694 2017-05-23T05:24:43Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007)and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 0f391d243e57fe9c6cbbb33fa38068383e0c31d3 1696 1695 2017-05-23T05:27:45Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 6 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] c7fa8f778bb06e08e147470e3df0ef1b5fedb7f4 1697 1696 2017-05-23T05:29:52Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w7.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows envionment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 19b9aa13762f1ab73b302366e83382fabee603b6 1698 1697 2017-06-05T08:05:45Z Krja 9 Updating ABC brochure to version 1 June 2017 wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T is currently running; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here. * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-T will be held on the relevant Monday (see below) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the relevant Wednesday starting on 14th June (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **ABC-T course dates:- **Session 1: Mon 8 May 2017 **Session 2: Mon 15 May 2017 **Session 3: Mon 22 May 2017 **Session 4: Mon 29 May 2017 **Session 5: Mon 5 June 2017 **Session 6: Mon 12 June 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Application open as detailed in FEE information'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes morning tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 7ea26a1c171e8ce76243933971d00ba5f449cdfb 1699 1698 2017-06-12T11:00:21Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T concluded on 12th June; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here.) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 5th July (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Course will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-U course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 5 July 2017 **Session 2: Wed 12 July 2017 **Session 3: Wed 19 July 2017 **Session 4: Wed 26 July 2017 **Session 5: Wed 2 August 2017 **Session 6: Wed 9 August 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] d94e97c48f757a27077dc11a124a5290ece8f937 1700 1699 2017-06-24T11:43:37Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T concluded on 12th June; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here.) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 5th July (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Course will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-U course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 12 July 2017 **Session 2: Wed 19 July 2017 **Session 3: Wed 26 July 2017 **Session 4: Wed 2 August 2017 **Session 5: Wed 9 August 2017 **Session 6: Wed 16 August 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] e6b0e71ef9965fcfcedc1f19afa617ac0c29a169 1701 1700 2017-06-24T11:44:58Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * ABC (Group T concluded on 12th June; Group U, the next course, has places available. More courses are planned as demand requires and will be posted here.) * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-U will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 12th July (subject to sufficient participants) from 12.45pm-3.15pm, and include a break for afternoon tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Course will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-U course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 12 July 2017 **Session 2: Wed 19 July 2017 **Session 3: Wed 26 July 2017 **Session 4: Wed 2 August 2017 **Session 5: Wed 9 August 2017 **Session 6: Wed 16 August 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 0765a9488b0e937e4867d25a1062c298d865b6dd 0 1 1702 1151 2017-06-26T04:36:31Z Jwalker 51 wikitext text/x-wiki '''Introduction''' Welcome to my Home Page, I hope you enjoy it. Hi I am Jill Walker, I live in Griffith, a suburb of Canberra in Australia. I work as a volunteer at Woden Community Services in Philip and in Wesley Central Uniting Church in Forrest Canberra. I have a physical disability called [[Cerebral Palsy]], but I don't let it get in the way of me doing things that I want to do. My Interests are anything creative from poetry to art and drama. I love socialising with friends and going to the movies, sometimes with friends and sometimes by myself. My family live in the Riverina and South Coast in New South Wales, another state in Australia. I see them about four times a year. There are four in my immediate family including my dad. I have a brother who has two girls and one boy and a sister with two boys. My E-mail address is [[jwalker@pcug.org.au]]. You are welcome to write to me and comment on what I have written. 01f133d29e7715e8d2b1bc2289ac80b74cc56575 1707 1702 2017-07-04T03:16:28Z Amikkels 50 wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices. == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Scams]] == Scams, especially via email, but also via social media, are an ongoing problem and constantly changing. This page includes a variety of helpful information and resources. == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. 7d568cb95be106d27cb1b94dc68d6b8b9ab94bba 6 244 1703 2017-06-26T05:08:00Z Jwalker 51 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 1705 1703 2017-06-26T05:19:39Z Jwalker 51 Jwalker uploaded a new version of &quot;[[File:Dad and me at Broken hill (2).jpg]]&quot; wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 245 1704 2017-06-26T05:11:40Z Jwalker 51 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 6 246 1706 2017-06-26T05:23:22Z Jwalker 51 wikitext text/x-wiki da39a3ee5e6b4b0d3255bfef95601890afd80709 1 247 1708 2017-07-09T02:30:41Z Cwijones 18 Noted broken hyperlink. wikitext text/x-wiki The referenced "PCUG's scamwatch listinfo page" does not exist today (9 Jul 2017). [[User:Cwijones|Cwijones]] ([[User talk:Cwijones|talk]]) 12:30, 9 July 2017 (AEST) b47f43fc26ef44c9c7aea849070d680ce2323eb8 0 4 1709 1584 2017-07-16T10:30:49Z Gjpotts 16 /* Training Courses for 2016 */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 30/06/2015''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is *no* longer available, with the closure of the PCUG premises at Mulley Street, Holder. * PCUG has agreed with U3A, to use U3A's training facility in Cook. * The Dell machines, with Windows7, are now located at Cook. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2017 == ''Item Date: 1/07/2017''<br/> * The 2017 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, expressions of interest are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact 1800 728 853 Eileen Dunstone (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Secretary [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is a lot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 18/04/2016''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 18/04/2016''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still much in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Main Monthly Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 18/04/2016'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia - (Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association - ASCCA), and overseas (Association of Personal Computer User Groups - APCUG). * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 79 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project). TIP continues to manager members' username accounts, store their e-mail on a server, and provide an area for a website, and files. == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] e9d3cd2ba597a7f13e95f80c3ff87211457d16d6 1710 1709 2017-07-16T10:42:09Z Gjpotts 16 /* Training Room for Hire */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page contains '''News and Notices''' relating to PCUG.<br/> nb. You are now reading information on the PCUG Information - Members Informing Members - Wiki.<br/> General information about PCUG is provided on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website]. <br/> Internet Services (TIP) Information is available on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki TIP Wiki] Training overview is available on the main PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]. Specific Course information is available on this wiki [[Training Courses]]. We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. Please contact PCUG by phone: 1800 728 853 - (option 3) for either/or. == PCUG Changed Contact Details == ''Item date 17/12/2014'' * Please note that whilst the PCUG '''centre''' has closed, the PCUG is still operating and is an active user group! * '''Send mail to: PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, WESTON CREEK, ACT 2611'''. * '''Phone: 1800 728 853''' * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-us-2/ Contact Us] == PCUG iSig == ''Item date 27/02/2015'' * For Session times for the iSig, please check the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar] * Full details on [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/special-interest-groups/i-sig-iphones-ipads iSig website info] == PCUG Annual General Meeting Wednesday 15 October, 2014 6.30pm == ''Item date 22/08/2014'' * PCUG's AGM is scheduled for Wednesday 15 October, 2014 * Venue is at the Grant Cameron Community Centre (Large Conference Room), 27 Mulley Street, Holder, ACT 2611 * We look forward to this being an interactive time and informative time, with the Committee elect, Volunteer of the Year, & Guest Speaker (TBA). * See full details on the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/agm PCUG website AGM info page] * Light refreshments will be available for anyone in attendance. * Contact Karen via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wptest/contact-us-2/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form Office Manager contact form] with any queries. == Cyber Security, and Stay Smart Online Awareness Week 2nd-6th June, 2014 == ''Item revised 19/5/2014''<br/> * PCUG is an official partner of the Cyber Security Awareness program. * A guest from SSO will speak on Cybersecurity Awareness on Wed 4 June, 10.30-11.30am, at the PCUG Centre. Please rsvp via the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training training contact form] if interested in attending (for catering purposes). * We have an area on this information wiki for information to help members, that includes tips, and also where to look for information alerts [[scams | http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams]] * Follow the news on the [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au Stay Smart Online website] <br/>The Australian Government's Cybersecurity Website [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au] provides information for Australian internet users on the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online. Full information, including subscription to newsletters, on their website. * [http://www.facebook.com.au/pcug.org.au The PCUG Facebook Page] is another forum of information sharing == Update on PCUG Mail Services == ''Item date 05/4/2014''<br/> * PCUG mail and personal website services have now successfully migrated to our new hosted server. * Some members are finding a they cannot access mail due to incorrect mail settings. * Please see the information on the [http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/index.php/Email TIP Wiki - Email] for information on how to correctly configure your email settings. == Update on Closure of Tip Internet Services == ''Item date 24/2/2014''<br/> * The link below is an information page on the closure of TIP services, and is updated as information is confirmed. * [http://www.pcug.org.au/shutdown.html Closure of Tip Internet Services Information Page] * Please note that PCUG members WILL be able to retain their PCUG email addresses and personal webspace. * Most importantly, the closure of TIP is not the closure of PCUG. Your club is continuing the variety of activity that members enjoy via SIGs, Training, Email Lists and more. == Training Room for Hire == ''Item revised 1/07/2017''<br/> * The PCUG Training Room is available, for hire - Room 35, Floor 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder ACT. * 12 Dell PCs, with Windows10, are provided. There is a trainer's PC available, with a data projector, and screen. * We are seeking a training coordinator who will:- ** collect details of courses of interest to PCUG members; ** seek trainers from the PCUG membership; ** when a course is viable, advise those on the waiting list; ** collect payments for, and follow up courses. == Training Courses for 2017 == ''Item Date: 1/07/2017''<br/> * The 2017 program is up and growing fast. * Web details of Training Courses are on this Info Wiki [[Training Courses]] page. * Expressions of Interest from both potential trainers and trainees are being accepted. * As courses fill, expressions of interest are accepted for further courses, trainers willing. * If there is a topic you wish to learn, let us know. * Can you teach or assist a course? Trainer Honoraria applicable. * Please contact 1800 728 853 Eileen Dunstone (Training Coordinator) or the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training Training Team] via the contact form. == Help and Advice == ''Item Date 24/2/2014''<br/> * per the guidelines on the PCUG help pages [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2 Help and Advice]. == Non-attachment Policy - Reversal == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * [Ref: PCUG Committee Meeting 20 May, 2013] For practicality of Office and Training activity, a previous policy of non-attachments (to emails) has been reversed. * Members are advised to continue to exercise extreme caution with links and attachments in emails, especially where the source of information is not known. * Further general [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Scams scam and spam awareness] information is provided on this wiki == PCUG Office Hours == ''Item revised 27/02/2015''<br/> * The PCUG no longer has an office, or Office Manager. * Make contact with PCUG (volunteers) using 1800 728 853, e-mail or post to PCUG (ACT) Inc, PO Box 3242, Weston Creek ACT 2611. * Phone messages are monitored by volunteers with arrangements in place for ongoing monitoring during public holiday periods (this cover is being extended to weekends by willing & available volunteers). * For general assistance or advice, please see the HELP information page on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/help-and-advice-2] == Call For Volunteers == '''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/r> * An all-member email was circulated early 2012 "YOUR PCUG NEEDS YOU" outlining the need for Volunteers. *Thank you to those who have responded, as we work to connect valued time and/or skills with support areas in PCUG. * Please contact the PCUG Secretary [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] to discuss any aspect of this further. *Our motto is '''USERS HELPING USERS'''. Information sharing is the backbone of our success. Share and learn. *Contributions to the group can be of any scale. Expertise, as required, is sought out. There is a lot our group can achieve with shared effort. More information available on the PCUG website [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/volunteers] <br/> == PCUG Volunteer Job Descriptions == ''Item revised: 18/04/2016''<br/> * What is a Volunteer? At the July 2013 Committee Meeting, it was agreed "that a volunteer be defined as a person filling a role for which there is a description which identifies the role and the expected benefits to the organisation”. * It is important that we have clearly defined descriptions of Volunteer Roles. The [[Activities and Opportunities]] area of this wiki is where these descriptions are recorded, and may be contributed to by any member. This will make it easier for potential volunteers to know what's involved, as well as identify the volunteer roles in PCUG. * We welcome input from anyone who is or has supported any role, by editing the [[Activities and Opportunities]] wiki page, or feedback to "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] == PCUG Committee - Volunteers needed to fill key vacancies == ''Item revised 18/04/2016''''' <br/> * The PCUG Committee is still much in need of Volunteers. * The committee acts to represent your interests in the management of club activities and other requirements as outlined in our Constitution. * The Vice President position is now vacant, with several general committee spots also available. * Main Monthly Meetings are held once a month, and discussion of matters is otherwise by email. * The PCUG cannot function with-out an active and viable committee. * Please contact the PCUG Committee [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/committee] or "office" volunteers [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/administration/contact-forms/office-manager-contact-form] with expressions of interest. == PCUG Website volunteers == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * The main PCUG website is administered using Wordpress. * The site is in need of additional volunteer input to support. * Please contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) if interested, or for further information. == PCUG Information Wiki == ''Item revised 24/2/2014''<br/> * PCUG's Information Wiki continues to grow, and has been a success since its launch mid 2012. * It provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, via your TIP login. * We very much encourage your participation in the growth of this site! * New to editing wikis?? See our Wiki Help in the navigation on the left, for TIPs on getting started. == PCUG on Facebook == ''Item revised 18/04/2016'' <br/> * When we ask new members how they heard about our group, it is often by word of mouth. * Help spread the word about PCUG. We are now linked with other Clubs in Australia - (Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association - ASCCA), and overseas (Association of Personal Computer User Groups - APCUG). * Like our Facebook page [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au]. We have 79 likes at the time of this notice review. * This page also needs willing administrators. Contact (Phone: 1800 728 853) for information or feedback. == TIO == ''Item revised 26/12/2014''<br/> PCUG was a member of the TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY OMBUDSMAN [http://www.tio.com.au]<br/> who are a free and fair dispute resolution service for small business and residential customers who have a complaint about their telephone or internet service in Australia. See their website for full information.<br/> PCUG provided (until Mar 2014) ISP services through TIP (The Internet Project). TIP continues to manager members' username accounts, store their e-mail on a server, and provide an area for a website, and files. == E-waste & Recycling Information == ''Item revised 24/2/2014'' <br/> * For an A-Z guide on information about recycling and waste management in the ACT, including computer equipment, see the [http://www.tams.act.gov.au/recycling-waste/recycling_and_waste_disposal/a-z_waste_and_recycling_guide A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide - Territory and Municipal Services] == [[News_and_Notices_archives|Older News and Notices]] == Older notices, with ongoing information are revised periodically to ratify current information. Access older news and notices than shown on this page using the above link, or by browsing the category link below. [[Category:News and Notices]] 9e74b87a36442171a5854ed36026f48ab4dc1e5d 0 165 1711 1647 2017-07-25T03:53:00Z Rpeters 14 updated network scanning for Epson devices wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the URL http://localhost:631 **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 7d8988b97eb9d60c670d0d23096537c7280222a4 0 166 1712 1315 2017-07-25T04:03:33Z Rpeters 14 added section Scanning via Network wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner *Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS *SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model **check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported *most Linux distributions use the same scanning software **XSane is the most capable **scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps === Selection Guideance === #check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model #'''download''' and '''install''' relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project #*this can usually be done without the scanner physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Scanner Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network *HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners **most Epson devices support scanning via via network === Scanning via Network === *Epson's guide to client/server scanning describes configuration: **http://download.ebz.epson.net/man/linux/iscan_e.html **parameters for other brands of scanners can be included in the conf files === Apps === Adjustments are needed to scan documents for archives or images for emailing. Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality *XSane **can also be used via GIMP *SimpleScan *Vuescan (free version) also works well **no installation instructions **good user manual **not open source and might be difficult to support Note that many of these apps default to high-resolution, full colour settings, aimed at photos. *Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans *B&W/Lineart settings might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents === Troubleshooting === If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check: *scanner/multi-function powered UP *connection via USB or LAN made *relevant driver installed --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 11:35, 18 December 2013 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 6b95c9449b9c563fe4b6abdce8b5d1f1d39aa0dd 1713 1712 2017-07-25T04:04:41Z Rpeters 14 /* Troubleshooting */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner *Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS *SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model **check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported *most Linux distributions use the same scanning software **XSane is the most capable **scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps === Selection Guideance === #check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model #'''download''' and '''install''' relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project #*this can usually be done without the scanner physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Scanner Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network *HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners **most Epson devices support scanning via via network === Scanning via Network === *Epson's guide to client/server scanning describes configuration: **http://download.ebz.epson.net/man/linux/iscan_e.html **parameters for other brands of scanners can be included in the conf files === Apps === Adjustments are needed to scan documents for archives or images for emailing. Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality *XSane **can also be used via GIMP *SimpleScan *Vuescan (free version) also works well **no installation instructions **good user manual **not open source and might be difficult to support Note that many of these apps default to high-resolution, full colour settings, aimed at photos. *Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans *B&W/Lineart settings might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents === Troubleshooting === If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check: *scanner/multi-function powered UP *connection via USB or LAN made *relevant driver installed --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:04, 25 July 2017 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] bd1e37d7a148d72da07eca5074a3aeb12e78f196 1714 1713 2017-07-25T04:05:02Z Rpeters 14 /* Troubleshooting */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their scanner (and printer) is apparently neither supported nor supportable. Be aware of the following factors, before outlaying on a replacement scanner *Linux uses the SANE scanner technology rather than TWAIN, which is used in other OS *SANE depends on the *chip* used in the scanner, which might not be related to the scanner brand or model **check the database under "Selection Guideance" below, before concluding that a scanner is not supported *most Linux distributions use the same scanning software **XSane is the most capable **scanner driver packages for Linux usually do not include scanning software apps === Selection Guideance === #check the database at http://www.sane-project.org against existing/proposed scanner model #'''download''' and '''install''' relevant driver from the manufacturers web site or sane-project #*this can usually be done without the scanner physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Scanner Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network *HP & Epson also actively support Linux drivers for their scanners **most Epson devices support scanning via via network === Scanning via Network === *Epson's guide to client/server scanning describes configuration: **http://download.ebz.epson.net/man/linux/iscan_e.html **parameters for other brands of scanners can be included in the conf files === Apps === Adjustments are needed to scan documents for archives or images for emailing. Many Distro install only basic scanner apps by default. The following can be installed to provide greater functionality *XSane **can also be used via GIMP *SimpleScan *Vuescan (free version) also works well **no installation instructions **good user manual **not open source and might be difficult to support Note that many of these apps default to high-resolution, full colour settings, aimed at photos. *Colour/Grayscale scans will produce files about 30 times the size of B&W/Lineart scans *B&W/Lineart settings might be a better choice for backing up or transmitting documents === Troubleshooting === If a scanner app fails to complete loading that indicates the scanner is "not found". Check: *scanner/multi-function powered UP *connection via USB or LAN made *relevant driver installed --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 14:04, 25 July 2017 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 6a4d9206caedaa14794e256b676c0d84cc60f260 0 137 1715 1418 2017-08-22T13:17:46Z Gjpotts 16 /* Scam Warnings */ wikitext text/x-wiki Scams, especially via [[Spam|spam emails]], but also increasingly via social media, are an ongoing problem. Everyone needs to exercise a degree of wariness. The point of a scam is to somehow gain an advantage from you. It may be remittance of money, or just simply giving away personal details. But if you look at an incoming e-mail and it is correctly addressed to you, then you are already on a list somewhere that is being distributed or sold. Apart from abandoning that particular e-mail address, there little you can do about it. PCUG clearly state that we will '''never''' ask you for sensitive details (login, passwords, etc) via email. If there is ever a problem with your account, we will ask you to ring or drop-in at the PCUG Centre to resolve it, where both we and you, can confirm who you are working with. Most reputable organisations (banks, credit unions, trade unions, clubs etc) have similar policies of never requesting sensitive information to be supplied electronically, as it is just too easy for spammers to forge such messages. This is simply good basic Internet practise. I regret to say that a few of our members have fallen for such scams previously. As a result, their accounts were used to send many thousands more SPAM emails, which resulted in the PCUG being placed on blacklists at the time, thus blocking some email delivery for all users. So please exercise caution as carelessness by one member can inconvenience and disrupt usage for all! Please review the links below for further information, and take specific note of the scam emails listed which target PCUG members specifically. Also, a '''scamwatch''' e-mail list has been set up to allow members to warn other members about, and to discuss, scams/spam. You can subscribe to the list by going to the PCUG's [https://lists.tip.net.au/listinfo/scamwatch scamwatch listinfo page]. See also our page with more practical guidance on [[Handling Email SPAM]] == More Information == For some guidance on how to avoid being caught by scams, see: * [http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/ Stay Smart Online], an Australian government site with lots of useful information * [http://www.accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-book-of-scams the free "The Little Black Book of Scams"] from the ACCC * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au Australian Government ACCC Scamwatch] - a number of members have found a subscription to their scamwatch list useful * [http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/reportascam report a scam to the ACCC] * [http://www.moneysmart.gov.au/ ASIC Moneysmart site - Financial scams recorded by ASIC] * [http://www.afp.gov.au/policing/cybercrime/online-fraud-and-scams AFP information on Internet Fraud & scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_confidence_tricks Wikipedia’s list of frauds/scams] * [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_email_scams Wikipedia’s list of e-mail scams] == Scam Warnings == Most scams use well-known brands to try to convince you of their trustworthiness - the Australian Government and its agencies, ANZ, NAB, Westpac and Commonwealth banks, Woolworths, Coles and the list goes on. If you are in doubt about any company-branded email, find their real site and visit it. Most have gotten over their shyness about scammers trying to steal their identities, and are quite up front about the attempts being made to con readers. * [https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/news/watch-out-for-nbn-scams NBN scam - Aug 2016] * [http://www.bunnings.com.au/gift-card-scam-warning Bunnings Gift Card Scam - July 2015] * [http://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/help/automated_scam_calls/ Virgin & Qantas Free Flight / $999 credt Scams - May 2014] * [http://scam-detector.com/travel-scams/malaysian-lottery-brochure Malaysian Travel Company Lottery / Scatchie Scams - 2013/2014] * [http://send.ladoo.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1855148&a=38192&k=aeaa267 Various scams used to trick holiday makers - 13 May 2013] * [http://www.anz.com/personal/ways-bank/security/online-security/alerts-reporting-fraud ANZ Hoax e-mails - May 2013] * [http://www.scamnet.wa.gov.au/scamnet/Types_Of_Scams-Email_Scams-Woolworths_50_survey_.htm Woolworths Scam Surveys - 8 June 2013] * [http://www.psnews.com.au/Page_psn3666.html?utm_source=psn366&utm_medium=email&utm_content=news6&utm_campaign=newsletter_www ATO warns about tax avoidance schemes - 18 June 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/email-scam-warning Friend overseas, and Surveys - 17th July 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/tax-refund-scam Tax Refund scams - 17th July 2013] * [http://alerts.staysmartonline.gov.au/em/mail/view.php?id=2095497&a=38192&k=c2c5065 Ransomware scam - 18th July 2013] * [http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/personal_finance/12/13/9/1 NAB phishing e-mails - 5th Aug 2013] * [http://www.yourlifechoices.com.au/news/shopping-scams-rise-65-per-cent Shopping Scams up by 65% - 8th Aug 2013] == Scams Targetting PCUG Members Specifically == We note here some scam emails that use PCUG's name and/or address in them. As stated above, these should be obviously recognised as scams, since we will '''never''' ask you for this type of information by email. Please '''Do NOT follow any links or open the any attachments!''' in any such emails! ==== SCAM - December 2015 - Subject: User Verification ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa December 2015:- "Dear Pcug.org User, This is to inform you that pcug.org. Security Center is shutting down some accounts due to congestion. This notification has been sent regardless of your last login date and you are required to access your account by clicking the link below to confirm usage and enjoy uninterrupted services. Notification Date: December 30th, 2015 To update your services; click http://<non-pcug-url-removed>/ OR copy and paste the link on your web browser to update your account. The Account Update Team at Pcug.org! Thank you for being on the network and apologize for any inconvenience caused. ABOUT THIS MESSAGE: This service message was delivered to you as pcug.org! Customer to provide you with account updates and information about your account benefits." Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the click "here" link contained has now been disabled ==== SCAM - February 2015 - Subject: Email Storage Alert ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2015. Note * the actual from address is not a PCUG address! * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the stated mail quota maximum size is wrong * the click "here" link has been disabled below Your mailbox is almost full. Dear xxxxxx@pcug.org.au, 3840MB 4096MB Current size Maximum size Please reduce your mailbox size. Delete any items you don't need from your mailbox and empty your Deleted Items folder. Click here to do reduce size automatically. Thanks, Mail System Administrator ==== SCAM - January 2015 - Subject: WARNING CODE:VX2G99AAJ ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January 2015. Note * the from address is not even PCUG! It's <technicalunit@careceo.com> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * our admin would have already known your user name & address! * the warning code is meaningless Dear Account User, Warning Code: VX2G99AAJ This message is from our email messaging centre. Your mailbox has exceeded the storage limit in our Server. You may not be able to send or receive mails in coming days. We request you upgrade your webmail account immediately by providing your account details as stated below. EMAIL ADDRESS:_________________________ ACCOUNT USERNAME:______________________ PASSWORD:______________________________ Failure to reply to this email as instructed will render your email account in-active in our database. PCUG.ORG.AU ADMINISTRATOR ==== SCAM - August 2014 - Subject: You have incoming pending messages ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa August 2014. Note * the Karen Albert in the From: is certainly not our Karen! * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, This is to inform you that you mailbox have exceed its storage limit set by the admin. So you may not be able to send or receive email until itis resolved. Please CLICKHERE to submit the form and wait for responds via Email. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - July 2014 - Subject: Your messages are pending ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2014. Note * the actual from address is an Iran account <code>&lt;f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Karen Albert <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> To: Recipients <f.farahbod@eng.uk.ac.ir> Dear User, you have some incoming pending mails were due to the recent hacking into our server and upgrade to our database, In order to receive this messages CLICKHERE and submit the form and wait for responds from your Email Account. We apologies for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Regards, Email Helpdesk Administrator ==== SCAM - Feb 2014 - Subject: PCUG email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account (same as last 2 scams) <code>&lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: *PCUG Email notice* <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Date: Thursday, 13 February 2014 Subject: PCUG email users To: This is to inform all PCUG email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your PCUG log-in account details and then click finish, to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. CLICK HERE TO FINISH UPDATE TO PCUG.ORG.AU NEW WEBMAIL SYSTEM <nowiki>http://www.formlogix.com/Manager/UserConditionalSurvey244203.aspx?Param=VXNlcklkPTI0NDIwMy5Gb3JtSWQ9MQ==</nowiki> ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Pcug email users ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>PCUG Service Administrator &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! Date: Thu, 30 Jan 2014 00:12:08 -0200 From: PCUG Service Administrator <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> To: undisclosed-recipients: ; Subject: [PCUG] Pcug email users This is to inform all Pcug email users that we have change to a secured email system to help us fight against spam emails so you are therefore authorise to click the link below to avoid any problems or spam attack to your email address. Log-in to your email with your Pcug log-in account details to avoid any problems to your account you must complete this process. <nowiki>http://securedpcug.form2pay.com/131173.html</nowiki> ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - Subject: Dear Pcug User ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa January/February 2014. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account, despite what the text name says! <code>Pcug University &lt;andreia@gr1editora.com.br&gt;</code> * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! From: Pcug University <andreia@gr1editora.com.br> Subject: Dear Pcug User Date: 27 January 2014 3:27:38 AM AEDT To: undisclosed-recipients:; -- Dear Pcug User There is an emergence from our data base we are currently carrying-out a maintenance process to your mailbox account, to complete this process Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link fill and click on submit. <nowiki>http://webupdate.form2pay.com/130542.html</nowiki> (copy it and paste it into your web browser's bar. then fill and submit for complete update) This process will help us to fight against spam mails. Failure to complete this process, will have your mailbox account deleted from our database. Thanks HELP DESK ---- ==== SCAM - Jan 2014 - SCAMwatch warning to smartphone and tablet users ==== SCAMwatch is warning consumers to beware of scammers targeting their smartphones and tablet devices with the computer virus scam. This scam has caught out many Australians in recent years, with victims receiving a call out of the blue from a ‘technical specialist’ claiming that their computer has a virus. The caller convinces the victim to provide them with remote access to their computer, claims that their security has been compromised, and then offers to fix it on the spot – for a fee. In a new twist, scammers are claiming to be able to fix similar viruses on people’s smartphones or tablets. As with the previous version, the scammer will ask you to grant them remote access to your computer, however they will also ask you to connect your mobile device to the computer so that they can access the device through it. Don’t let your guard drop by a sense of urgency – these scammers are well-versed at applying high pressure sales tactics to incite fear and anxiety that your device has been compromised and must be fixed immediately. In fact, the only way that you risk your device’s security is by providing access in the first place. If you hand over your money, your device will not receive the promised protection. Ask yourself: why would a business call and offer to fix your computer unless you contacted them in the first place? If you store personal information on your phone, tablet or computer, keep it out of the hands of scammers – never provide remote access to a stranger. How the scam works:- *You receive a call out of the blue from someone claiming to be a technical support specialist, who informs you that your computer, smartphone or tablet has been compromised by malicious software. * The caller may claim to represent a reputable business such as Microsoft, Windows, Telstra or Bigpond. *They may also sound like an expert as they use technical jargon. *The ‘technician’ will ask you to provide them with remote access to your computer so that they can run a scan. *If they claim the virus is on your smartphone or tablet, they will ask you to connect the device to your computer so that they can access the device through it. *If you provide them with access, they will claim that the scan has indeed detected a virus, and any information stored on the device has been compromised. *The ‘technician’ will then claim that they can restore your computer’s security on the spot – for a fee. They will offer to install anti-virus software on to your device for a one-off payment that typically ranges from $100 to $300. *If you hesitate to agree, the caller will be very persistent and try to evoke a sense of urgency by claiming that anything could happen to your device if you don’t fix it now. *To pay, they will ask for your credit card or banking details, or to transfer them money. *If you provide remote access to the caller, only then are your compromising your device and personal information. If you hand over your money, your device will never receive the promised security software. Protect yourself *If you receive a phone call from someone claiming there is something wrong with your computer or mobile device’s security, just hang up. *Never give a stranger remote access to your mobile device or computer. *Do not give out your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone unless you initiated the call and the phone number came from a trusted source. *Make sure your computer is protected with anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a good firewall - but only purchase the software from a source that you know and trust. *If you think your mobile device or computer’s security has been compromised, seek out help or advice from a qualified and reputable technician. *If you think you have provided your account details to a scammer, contact your bank or financial institution immediately. Report You can report scams to the ACCC via the report a scam page on SCAMwatch or by calling 1300 795 995. ---- ==== SCAM - Nov 2013 - Subject: Dear Pcug User, - From: Pcug Administrator ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa November 2013. Note * the actual from address is a brazilian account! alexandre@dilk.com.br * PCUG members are not specifically addressed in the To address * the supplied link is '''not''' part of the PCUG website * the grammar is woeful! '''Do NOT follow the link and provide requested details!''' From: Pcug Administrator [mailto:alexandre@dilk.com.br] Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2013 2:25 PM To: undisclosed-recipients: Subject: Dear Pcug User, Dear Pcug User, A phish attempt, banned phrase or sensitive information was detected in a message sent to you and the original message has been quarantined. This message is a copy of the original with the content replaced with this text. The subject line and sender information has been unaltered from the original. Please you are to re-validate your pcug.org.au email address immediately. Please copy and paste the link on you web Browser or click on the link then fill and submit. <nowiki>http://pcug.form2go.com/125479.html</nowiki> Thanks. Help Desk ---- ==== SCAM - Sep 2013 - No Subject - PCUG Network Manager ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa September 2013. Note the actual from address is a gmail account!: sb.netwrk@gmail.com '''Do not open the PDF attachment!''' From: PCUG Network Manager <sb.netwrk@gmail.com> To: undisclosed-recipients:; Subject: In order to comply with PCUG Corporate Policy, it is your responsibility to validate the mailbox ownership and review the access rights due to unauthorized access to your account by spammers. modifications to the permissions are required, please complete the Department Mailbox Request Form by viewing the enclosed attachment and follow instruction therein. Regards, PCUG Network Manager Production Security Compliance ---- ==== SCAM - Jul 2013 - Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit ==== The following scam is being sent to members circa July 2013. Note the actual reply email address is in '''Thailand''' despite what the "text" name says! From: support@pcug.org.au <nowiki>[mailto:helpsupport@admin.in.th]</nowiki> To: XXX@pcug.org.au Subject: Your mailbox is nearly over its size limit Your mailbox has exceeded one or more size limits set by your administrator, we have decided to run a database clean-up and refresh your mailbox. please provide the below credentials : Email Address: Username : Password: Confirm Password: System Administrator ---- == See Also == * [[Spam]] - for details on spam messages, which are often used in scams [[Category:Technical Info]] 024b085f07dd38f535ab8c6b1206a8b7f5ff5552 0 112 1716 1701 2017-09-27T18:27:55Z Gjpotts 16 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details, email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ada63fa433aa6241a87610d4082354e71eb74cb2 1717 1716 2017-09-28T00:54:13Z Mikec 31 /* Placing Bookings and Enquiries */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] bbfb87df6a4410c4a1b615663202ca8ac854b279 1718 1717 2017-09-28T00:56:33Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the endof the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 99b89717666d17c2df09984b29d928a9984c24cd 1719 1718 2017-09-28T00:58:35Z Mikec 31 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] e4f73ab8bd8d0da58791c9a0f6e8574db682329b 1720 1719 2017-09-28T00:59:44Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] ebcfadcfa5c6eff36767dbb001790c43ddb7320a 1721 1720 2017-09-28T01:00:45Z Mikec 31 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 Month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] f5df05e488930d73a7df2127d9eaa7189e97985e 1722 1721 2017-09-28T01:01:19Z Mikec 31 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday mornings 09:45am to 12:15 commencing 5 July 2017 - ending 9 August 2017. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] dbe64b29c387b1d8cbcc9e6b4b3481e141bb7172 1724 1722 2018-01-10T03:07:19Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- === Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc)for 2018 === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., AFTER 8 June == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 520da656994c9e49810968a915bfc81fa45e2b36 1725 1724 2018-01-10T03:11:30Z Quanro 13 /* Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc)for 2018 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 839d3d32e4c74896ef5058f37524f667750ceef2 1728 1725 2018-04-02T02:55:42Z Quanro 13 /* 2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === CANCELLED DUE TO LACK OF APPLICANTS *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] cb613f0f3ec83f365bf2d686e3c54dc1ef905d3e 1729 1728 2018-04-02T02:56:33Z Quanro 13 /* 2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === '''CANCELLED DUE TO LACK OF APPLICANTS'''''Italic text'' *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 68b7f64edfc3d43794a357d68dd5bd4e5259c500 1730 1729 2018-04-02T02:57:23Z Quanro 13 /* 2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === ''''''CANCELLED DUE TO LACK OF APPLICANTS''' *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 9eb18015492070d46650257f0a6abc4b6530d89d 1731 1730 2018-04-02T02:57:51Z Quanro 13 /* 2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === '''CANCELLED DUE TO LACK OF APPLICANTS''' *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 0c6040ac8caadc614febed9c89c114acc242188e 1732 1731 2018-04-02T02:58:32Z Quanro 13 /* 2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === ''''''CANCELLED DUE TO LACK OF APPLICANTS'''''' *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 68db48145cf389e73e96600d6a5838176e0d1106 1733 1732 2018-04-02T02:58:49Z Quanro 13 /* 2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2017 == === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === '''''CANCELLED DUE TO LACK OF APPLICANTS''''' *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] b3d80ea7a413b3f57e31a9ca8db862267bfa11c0 1755 1733 2019-01-28T14:13:08Z Gjpotts 16 /* Courses for 2019 */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2019== === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **All sessions for ABC-V will be held on the six consecutive Wednesdays starting on 25th October (subject to sufficient participants) from 9.45am-12.15pm, and include a break for morning tea. **Sessions for subsequent ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm. **ABC-V course dates:- **Session 1: Wed 25 October 2017 **Session 2: Wed 1 November 2017 **Session 3: Wed 8 November 2017 **Session 4: Wed 15 November 2017 **Session 5: Wed 22 November 2017 **Session 6: Wed 29 November 2017 *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === '''''CANCELLED DUE TO LACK OF APPLICANTS''''' *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 32030176d53eb427ab3088c06712b0f66087f82e 1756 1755 2019-01-28T14:28:55Z Gjpotts 16 /* ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2019== === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **Sessions for ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm, , and include a break for tea/coffee. **Sessions are planned for March 2019. **A similar Win-7 to Win-10 conversion course may be conducted depending on demand. **ABC and/or Win-7 to Win-10 conversion course dates to be announced. *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === '''''CANCELLED DUE TO LACK OF APPLICANTS''''' *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm commencing 4 April 2018 - ending 16 May 2018. There will be no class on 25 April. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder.. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10 **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., up to 21 February and after 21 March (I will be away during the interval!). == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] 05f6600b33d09e9ac64cf92ebfd29ca7adf05172 1757 1756 2019-01-28T14:34:34Z Gjpotts 16 /* 2018 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) */ wikitext text/x-wiki == Introduction == === General Overview Information regarding Training Facilities and Courses === *is available on the main PCUG website [[http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/a-bit-about-us/pcug-centre/training Training Information]] === Expressions of Interest === *We welcome expressions of interest from Trainers wishing to run courses, and Participants seeking courses. *Please contact the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 for either/or; OR *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-course-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to lodge expressions of interest, whether advertised or otherwise. === Placing Bookings and Enquiries === * All enquires may be emailed to [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/contact-us/contact-forms/training PCUG Training Coordinator] via the contact form, or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853 *Use the [http://pcug.org.au/documents/forms/pcug-training-booking-form-general.pdf Training Course Booking Form]to apply for a course or lodge an expression of interest. *Please provide PCUG membership status and details (if applicable, non-members are also welcome), email address and contact phone number in any enquiry. *All applications will be confirmed by the PCUG Training Coordinator, ASAP on receipt. === Course Fees === * Course fees advertised are applicable to the current advertised course only, and may vary for future courses. * An admin levy of up to $40 is applicable to non-PCUG members attending PCUG courses (variable per individual course). * If the non-member course participant wishes to apply for PCUG membership, and does so within 3 months of the course start date, the applicant may apply for a $20 discount off the current PCUG subscription. == Courses for 2019== === ABC - Absolute Beginners Computing === * '''About''': **This course is designed for absolute beginners who are just starting out or those who never learned the basics - ''but who DO have home internet and Windows 7/10''.<br/>Sessions are based on the Windows 10 operating system, and held in the Grant Cameron Community Centre, Room 35 on Level 2A, 27 Mulley Street, Holder, with experienced volunteer trainers.<br/>Topics include learning your way around the computer, Internet basics, and Email. Each session is paced for beginners, with revision, take-home notes, and practice exercises.<br/> The need for this type of course is very popular, and reaching those who would benefit happens largely by word of mouth. Do you know someone who would benefit? As different people have varied needs, other groups are being formulated for example, for people who do not yet have a computer, or internet or email, we are planning on a modified version of the above training. All enquiries welcome. *'''Bookings and Expressions of Interest''': **'''Expressions of Interest are now being taken''' and may be lodged with the [mailto:training@pcug.org.au&subject=ABC&nbsp;Course PCUG Training Coordinator] or call the PCUG and request an email to be lodged on your behalf. **Full details of enrolment information may be viewed at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest top of this page]. *'''Brochure''': **A guide to session content is outlined in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/documents/brochure/abc-flyer-w10.pdf Absolute Beginners Computing Brochure (pdf)], noting that the Trainer may vary content focus to meet the needs of the group. *'''Trainer''': Mike Cassidy (and a team of experienced PCUG trainer assistants) * '''Session Information''': **Sessions for ABC Courses will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays (to suit participants' needs) from 9.45am-12.15pm or 12.45-3.15pm, , and include a break for tea/coffee. **Sessions are planned for March 2019. **A similar Win-7 to Win-10 conversion course may be conducted depending on demand. **ABC and/or Win-7 to Win-10 conversion course dates to be announced. *'''Participants''': Limit 12 ''Applications open as detailed in Bookings and Expressions of Interest above'' *'''Venue''': Room 35, Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley St, Holder (Bus route 83) *'''Fee''': $85 for members, $105 for non-members (includes afternoon tea, documentation and completion certificate). The surcharge of $20 for non-members can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within one month of the end of the course. ----------------------------------------------------------------- ===2019 - Introduction to Spreadsheets (using Microsoft Excel 2007 and Libre Office Calc) === *'''Course Title: Introduction to Spreadsheets''' **Description & Requirements: ***A course introducing participants to spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel (2007) and/or Libre Office Calc. Libre Office is free software that performs basically the same functions as Microsoft Office. Basic familiarity with the Windows environment will be assumed. No previous knowledge of spreadsheets required. Prepare to be surprised at the variety of things you can do with a spreadsheet!! ***Spreadsheets are very powerful, versatile and widely used software. They make it easy to manage all sorts of problems from preschool arithmetic to highly sophisticated financial or statistical analysis. This course will start at the simplest level looking at how to manage your spreadsheet to make it work for you like an ordinary piece of paper (but better!), and progress to finding out how to use the spreadsheet to simplify some everyday tasks like planning a holiday itinerary or working out which is the best dog food to buy. Using the graphics features and charts will also be introduced. ***There will be six sessions of two and a half hours with a 30 minute break for tea and discussion. Class members are invited to bring forward their own projects for the group to work on together. **The course prerequisite is that you should have completed the PCUG Absolute Beginners Computing course or attained an equivalent level of familiarity with a computer (ie you can open, close save and copy files). **'''Trainer:''' Roger Quarterman **'''When:''' Held over 6 sessions usually on Wednesday afternoons 02:00 pm to 04:30 pm. **'''Where:''' Room 35 Level 2A, Grant Cameron Community Centre, 27 Mulley Street, Holder. **'''Fee:''' $85 for PCUG members. There is a surcharge of $20 for non-members which can be put towards the cost of membership if you join within 1 month of the end of the course. **'''Places:''' up to 10. **'''Applications & Enquiries:''' Please contact Roger Quarterman quanro@pcug.org.au., for details of planned courses. == Other Courses (but not limited to ...) == * ''dates pending for next sessions, to be advised'' * NB: These and other courses listed here are scheduled pending demand & trainer availability, * Expressions of interest may be lodged at any time by emailing training@pcug.org.au, or contacting the PCUG on 1800 728 853 * Are you wanting a course, or demonstration, or session on a subject not listed? Please let us know. === ACCESS - Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access 2007) === * '''Expressions of Interest''' being accepted currently * '''Scheduled:''' Last held Wed 9, 16, 23, & 30 April 2014 10am-1200pm (midday) * '''About:''' A four week course will introduce participants to the design of a database system. Content to be covered will be the creation of tables to hold the data, queries to filter and sort data, forms to input and edit data and generating reports. Prior experience is not necessary. Pre-requisites are basic keyboard and mouse skills. * '''Applications and Expression of Interest''': by email to [mailto:training@pcug.o​rg.au training@pcug.org.au] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. Full guide to bookings and enquiries is outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest| top of this page] === EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA === *'''Course Title:''' EXCEL - Using Macros and VBA in Excel<br> *'''Description & Requirements:''' A training course in creating, modifying and using macros and visual Basic in Excel. Participants should be competent in using common features in Excel but no prior experience is required with macros and/or Visual Basic. *'''When:''' Expressions of Interest being accepted currently <br/>The course will be conducted over 3 (three) consecutive sessions *'''Expressions of Interest & Applications:''' Follow the Expression of Interest information outlined at the [http://www.pcug.org.au/info/index.php/Training_Courses#Expressions_of_Interest|top of this page] Email [mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Coordinator]or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. === Wiki Editing === * '''ABOUT''': A lot of PCUG information is now delivered using a wiki interface. Editing Wikis is not as daunting as it seems, and we are seeking to encourage members to share information via this tool where-ever possible. Our secretary, and TIP admin, Lawrie Brown will step participants through the process of placing information on a wiki by editing and creating pages, and formatting their content. He will use the reference guide pages he created. This will be a hands on session, with plenty of time for you to explore the content creation and formatting process. If at all possible, please bring some plain text content that you'd like to contribute to one of our wikis on a USB drive. You can also bring some images to include in your pages, as we'll also be exploring how to upload and reference images. <br/> If you are new to contributing to wiki's, please see these guides, which we will work through and discuss during this course: [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]]. * '''WHEN''': TBA (last session held Wed 26 September, 2012 with Lawrie Brown) * '''WHERE''': PCUG Centre, Grant Cameron Community Centre, Holder. * '''TRAINER''': TBA * '''PARTICIPANTS''': 10 places open to any PCUG member or others interested in learning more about editing wikis. * '''FEE''': $20 (PCUG members), $40 (non-members), or Free** (**''the fee will be waived for any regular PCUG volunteer who agrees to use this training to further build our information resources'') * '''BOOKINGS''': to [[mailto:training@pcug.org.au PCUG Training Bookings]] or phone the PCUG on 1800 728 853. (''Further sessions will follow pending demand''). [[Category:Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category:Training]] c3d43eced72142c85b812dbbb71cb9191d027984 0 1 1723 1707 2017-09-28T01:10:42Z Mikec 31 /* News and Notices */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices. Next ABC (Absolute Beginners Computing) Course will start on 25th October 2017. Use the "Training Course" link below to see all the details. == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Scams]] == Scams, especially via email, but also via social media, are an ongoing problem and constantly changing. This page includes a variety of helpful information and resources. == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. 8711cb9dbb8885c529ac0213ae0abf31609bdee7 1742 1723 2018-06-06T14:28:02Z Gjpotts 16 /* News and Notices */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices. Next ABC (Absolute Beginners Computing) Course planned for June/July 2018. Use the "Training Course" link below to see all the details. Next Introduction to Facebook Course planned for July 2018. Is there a course or information session you require, contact training@pcug.org.au. == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Scams]] == Scams, especially via email, but also via social media, are an ongoing problem and constantly changing. This page includes a variety of helpful information and resources. == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. 9e6f4d32227b98bd876eb47930c6f0eda420b330 1743 1742 2018-06-06T14:58:17Z Gjpotts 16 /* News and Notices */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices. Next ABC (Absolute Beginners Computing) Course is planned for June/July 2018.<br> Next Introduction to Facebook Course is planned for July 2018.<br> Is there a course or information session you require, contact training@pcug.org.au.<br> New courses will appear in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar], when they are scheduled. == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Scams]] == Scams, especially via email, but also via social media, are an ongoing problem and constantly changing. This page includes a variety of helpful information and resources. == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. 774649b8527eef0b916ec82221274af5ad4df795 1758 1743 2019-02-14T06:25:56Z Gjpotts 16 /* News and Notices */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ == Welcome to the PCUG Information Wiki == <span style="color:red">Please support this member initiative by adding content!</span> <span style="color:red">If you are new to this wiki, please read our [[Info_Wiki:About|Information on Using this Wiki]]</span> === Members Informing Members === This wiki provides a place where PCUG members can share information with each other, in [[Special:Categories|categories]] as shown below. You can use the '''Search''' box on the left hand side to find information; browse the site using the links below; or view the [[Special:AllPages|index of all pages]]. General information on the PCUG may be found on the [http://www.pcug.org.au main PCUG website], or you can interact with us on our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page]. This PCUG Information Wiki can be edited by any PCUG member using their normal PCUG/TIP username and password to login. For guidance on doing this, please see our pages [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the links in the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page. == [[News and Notices]] == Includes details of various PCUG and TIP notices. Next ABC (Absolute Beginners Computing) Course is planned for March/April 2019.<br> An Introduction to Facebook Course is planned for 2019.<br> Is there a course or information session you require, contact training@pcug.org.au.<br> New courses will appear in the [http://www.pcug.org.au/wp/member-services-2/calendar/ PCUG Calendar], when they are scheduled. == [[Activities and Opportunities]] and [[Training Courses]] == Includes information about the groups activities and opportunities for participation, including [[Training Courses]], SIG Information, Volunteering opportunities, descriptions and more. == [[Newsletters]] == Includes various newsletters received from affiliated organisations and other sources == [[Scams]] == Scams, especially via email, but also via social media, are an ongoing problem and constantly changing. This page includes a variety of helpful information and resources. == [[Technical Info]] == Includes a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP) ISP Services''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> == [[Social Media]] == PCUG is expanding into social media. Find out about our [https://www.facebook.com/pcug.org.au Facebook page], how to like it, and contribute. 1a2b1b60570176a2c817af81982a896325932463 0 68 1726 515 2018-01-30T13:39:17Z Gjpotts 16 /* Work Health and Safety */ wikitext text/x-wiki This page outlines information pertaining to OH&S, Working with Vulnerable People etc == Work Health and Safety == *On Wednesday 1 August 2012, the Hon. Bill Shorten MP, announced the release of the Safe Work Australia Volunteer Resource Kit. *The kit was developed with input from a range of peak volunteer organisations including Volunteering ACT. *The kit will assist volunteers to understand what Work Health and Safety laws mean for them and provides a range of useful tools and information on Work Health and Safety laws including: Full details are available at: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/system/files/documents/1702/volunteers_handout.pdf [[Category: Volunteering]] [[Category: Activities and Opportunities]] [[Category: Policies and Procedures]] 1a5e52b569febf283a41cad1e336b4d29b372e53 0 215 1727 1600 2018-02-22T21:02:49Z Rpeters 14 added topic Live Portable - several Linux SIG members experimenting with this wikitext text/x-wiki * [[PC_21C & Secure_Boot]] * [[Additional HDD]] * [[Dual-Booting]] * [[GPT Partitioning]] * [[Linux_Distribution_64-bit_v_32-bit]] * [[Linux_Distribution_Recommendations]] * [[Live_Portable]] * [[Netbook_Linux_Installation]] * [[SSD_Linux]] 8b6072cda179dbbfc0f728e17eb8c564043d2c3b 0 165 1734 1711 2018-05-03T05:52:27Z Rpeters 14 added driverless printing wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah> are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list # will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless # lpadmin -p <> -v <> -m everywhere -E </nowiki> see man lpadmin for suitable parameters to use above "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer something or other ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] f80f85642246904acf155c907c7cc462454227b6 1735 1734 2018-05-03T05:59:15Z Rpeters 14 /* Administration */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah> are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> <nowiki>I# /nowiki> # lpadmin -p <> -v <> -m everywhere -E see man lpadmin for suitable parameters to use above "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer something or other ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 9af1aa285a35080009e9af8bb39b7db44982b338 1736 1735 2018-05-03T06:00:10Z Rpeters 14 /* Selection Guideance */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah>" are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> <nowiki>I# /nowiki> # lpadmin -p <> -v <> -m everywhere -E see man lpadmin for suitable parameters to use above "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer something or other ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" currently "system-config-printer". This GUI tool is the default in Fedora and Ubuntu and is also installed by default in openSUSE. It may appear in the start menu under various names: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools include: *the direct interface to the Linux printing sub-system (CUPS) on your computer is via the **this is also a fairly capable and reliable tool *other setup routines are provided in many Distributions **these might not detect downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] b608b243ef655f2f2e6de28fa98d5e2b116791d9 1737 1736 2018-05-03T06:12:33Z Rpeters 14 /* Administration */ updated administration to cover driverless printers wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah>" are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> <nowiki># lpadmin -p <parameter> -v <parameter> -m everywhere -E/nowiki> see man lpadmin for suitable - p parameter. The -v parameter must be the exact ipp:// URL reported by "driverless list" "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it from output of the "driverlees list" command, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer some driver of some sort ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" A widely deployed GUI printer configuration tool is "system-config-printer". It is the default in many distributions but currently does not handle driverless printing. It may appear in the start menu under various names, eg: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools are included in the administration menu of some distributions **these might not detect driverless printers or downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges *add user to group "lp" *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== A paradigm shift occurred with CUPS 1.6 *SLP must now be installed and configured to use printers controlled via other hosts ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ab06a70d9ecb16576415c8184ad7492f6bf7f486 1738 1737 2018-05-03T06:27:03Z Rpeters 14 /* Administration */added requirement for "avahi" in many situations wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah>" are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> Then execute <nowiki># lpadmin -p <parameter> -v <parameter> -m everywhere -E</nowiki> see man lpadmin for suitable - p parameter. The -v parameter must be the exact ipp:// URL reported by "driverless list" "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it from output of the "driverlees list" command, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer some driver of some sort ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" A widely deployed GUI printer configuration tool is "system-config-printer". It is the default in many distributions but currently does not handle driverless printing. It may appear in the start menu under various names, eg: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools are included in the administration menu of some distributions **these might not detect driverless printers or downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges, that are controlled by the parameter "SystemGroup" in the file /etc/cups/cups-files.conf *make a note of the groups permitted via that parameter *8under usual user administration, add user to one of those groups (other than root) *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== Major paradigm shifts occurred with CUPS 1.6 and again with CUPS 2.2. *"avahi" must now be installed to provide DNSSD services and find network printers or print servers **it must also be installed on computers that are operating as print servers ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 13:52, 12 September 2014 (EST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 8138433b5f1d03bcf20e914f1ff053ce082db26c 1739 1738 2018-05-03T06:30:45Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah>" are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> Then execute <nowiki># lpadmin -p <parameter> -v <parameter> -m everywhere -E</nowiki> see man lpadmin for suitable - p parameter. The -v parameter must be the exact ipp:// URL reported by "driverless list" "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it from output of the "driverlees list" command, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer some driver of some sort ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" A widely deployed GUI printer configuration tool is "system-config-printer". It is the default in many distributions but currently does not handle driverless printing. It may appear in the start menu under various names, eg: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools are included in the administration menu of some distributions **these might not detect driverless printers or downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges, that are controlled by the parameter "SystemGroup" in the file /etc/cups/cups-files.conf *make a note of the groups permitted via that parameter *8under usual user administration, add user to one of those groups (other than root) *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== Major paradigm shifts occurred with CUPS 1.6 and again with CUPS 2.2. *"avahi" must now be installed to provide DNSSD services and find network printers or print servers **it must also be installed on computers that are operating as print servers ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --([[User talk:Rpeters|Rod]]) --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:30, 3 May 2018 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] fc81fd1cc8344a71707ffed6f7a9db3780af4fb8 1740 1739 2018-05-03T06:32:00Z Rpeters 14 /* Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah>" are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> Then execute <nowiki># lpadmin -p <parameter> -v <parameter> -m everywhere -E</nowiki> see man lpadmin for suitable - p parameter. The -v parameter must be the exact ipp:// URL reported by "driverless list" "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it from output of the "driverlees list" command, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer some driver of some sort ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" A widely deployed GUI printer configuration tool is "system-config-printer". It is the default in many distributions but currently does not handle driverless printing. It may appear in the start menu under various names, eg: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools are included in the administration menu of some distributions **these might not detect driverless printers or downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges, that are controlled by the parameter "SystemGroup" in the file /etc/cups/cups-files.conf *make a note of the groups permitted via that parameter *8under usual user administration, add user to one of those groups (other than root) *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== Major paradigm shifts occurred with CUPS 1.6 and again with CUPS 2.2. *"avahi" must now be installed to provide DNSSD services and find network printers or print servers **it must also be installed on computers that are operating as print servers ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:32, 3 May 2018 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] ae74bcfa2c4c07892b74e760e8dd1a04d22327f6 1741 1740 2018-05-03T06:34:17Z Rpeters 14 /* Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations */ wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah>" are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> Then execute <nowiki># lpadmin -p <parameter> -v <parameter> -m everywhere -E</nowiki> see man lpadmin for suitable - p parameter. The -v parameter must be the exact ipp:// URL reported by "driverless list" "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it from output of the "driverlees list" command, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer some driver of some sort ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" A widely deployed GUI printer configuration tool is "system-config-printer". It is the default in many distributions but currently does not handle driverless printing. It may appear in the start menu under various names, eg: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools are included in the administration menu of some distributions **these might not detect driverless printers or downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges, that are controlled by the parameter "SystemGroup" in the file /etc/cups/cups-files.conf *make a note of the groups permitted via that parameter *8under usual user administration, add user to one of those groups (other than root) *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== Major paradigm shifts occurred with CUPS 1.6 and again with CUPS 2.2. *"avahi" must now be installed to provide DNSSD services and find network printers or print servers **it must also be installed on computers that are operating as print servers ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:32, 3 May 2018 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] a427152210188bcc83ca5843c76b2ba4f316cc3a 1744 1741 2018-09-06T12:41:49Z Rpeters 14 /* Troubleshooting */added sub-section Firmware Upgrade wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah>" are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> Then execute <nowiki># lpadmin -p <parameter> -v <parameter> -m everywhere -E</nowiki> see man lpadmin for suitable - p parameter. The -v parameter must be the exact ipp:// URL reported by "driverless list" "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it from output of the "driverlees list" command, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer some driver of some sort ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" A widely deployed GUI printer configuration tool is "system-config-printer". It is the default in many distributions but currently does not handle driverless printing. It may appear in the start menu under various names, eg: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools are included in the administration menu of some distributions **these might not detect driverless printers or downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Firmware Upgrade==== Apart from the abiility to print without a specific driver, Driverless printing can have other advantages: *might find more capabilities and options in a printer than are included in the Linux driver A Firmware upgrade to the printer might have advantages: *enable driverless printing, whereas not previously available *increase functionality eg **page sizes **duplexing **resolution There will always be a risk that a firmware upgrade will fail and render the printer unusable *UPS can generally support inkjet printers during the upgrade *but Laser printers draw much more current for the fuser ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges, that are controlled by the parameter "SystemGroup" in the file /etc/cups/cups-files.conf *make a note of the groups permitted via that parameter *8under usual user administration, add user to one of those groups (other than root) *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== Major paradigm shifts occurred with CUPS 1.6 and again with CUPS 2.2. *"avahi" must now be installed to provide DNSSD services and find network printers or print servers **it must also be installed on computers that are operating as print servers ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:32, 3 May 2018 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] f22d2d539df3ae426e18460df1a9651bee10f08b 0 7 1745 1635 2018-09-07T23:44:23Z Rpeters 14 /* Firewall */added section for IPFire - preferred software within PCUG Linux SIG wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] * [[IPFire]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] *[[Secure Erasure]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Desk-Top Computers ==== *[[HP ProDesk 400 G1]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 1bb9256eef35fa6637f992ebe9531e2cae5d68c1 0 248 1746 2018-09-07T23:56:21Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "This is a fairly flexible firewall-router software, that is freely downloadable: [https://www.ipfire.org/download IPFire Download] *default is ISO image for x86_64 hardware **..." wikitext text/x-wiki This is a fairly flexible firewall-router software, that is freely downloadable: [https://www.ipfire.org/download IPFire Download] *default is ISO image for x86_64 hardware **image for i586 also available **image for ARM hardware supports limited range see: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/hardware/arm/start IPFire ARM Devices] [https://www.ipfire.org/hardware Preinstalled Hardware] [[User:Rpeters|Rod]] [[Category:Technical Info]] 56fba587329c775f9eecf068f8fa63ddbf500f6c 1747 1746 2018-09-08T00:00:20Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a fairly flexible firewall-router software, that is freely downloadable: [https://www.ipfire.org/download IPFire Download] *default is ISO image for x86_64 hardware **image for i586 also available **image for ARM hardware supports limited range see: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/hardware/arm/start IPFire ARM Devices] [https://www.ipfire.org/hardware Preinstalled Hardware] A guide to installation and configuration is at: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/installation/start IPFire Installation] The IPFire project deprecates using modems in routing mode. That does not suit NBN users. An example of how to configure an IPFire device with SOHO LAN is: [[Media:Example.ogg]] [[User:Rpeters|Rod]] [[Category:Technical Info]] 02fadddb7ecfe129f122c48396245f8dd5cba503 1748 1747 2018-09-08T00:05:20Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a fairly flexible firewall-router software, that is freely downloadable: [https://www.ipfire.org/download IPFire Download] *default is ISO image for x86_64 hardware **image for i586 also available **image for ARM hardware supports limited range see: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/hardware/arm/start IPFire ARM Devices] Those preferring commercial products can purchase hardware having IPFire preinstalled: [https://www.ipfire.org/hardware Preinstalled Hardware] A guide to installation and configuration is at: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/installation/start IPFire Installation] The IPFire project deprecates using modems in routing mode. That does not suit NBN users well. An example of how to configure an IPFire device with SOHO LAN is: [[Media:Example.ogg]] [[User:Rpeters|Rod]] [[Category:Technical Info]] 343ff487072b9a6bed6ad5a4d248ca9b554339fe 1750 1748 2018-09-08T00:10:51Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a fairly flexible firewall-router software, that is freely downloadable: [https://www.ipfire.org/download IPFire Download] *default is ISO image for x86_64 hardware **image for i586 also available **image for ARM hardware supports limited range see: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/hardware/arm/start IPFire ARM Devices] Those preferring commercial products can purchase hardware having IPFire preinstalled: [https://www.ipfire.org/hardware Preinstalled Hardware] A guide to installation and configuration is at: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/installation/start IPFire Installation] The IPFire project deprecates using modems in routing mode. That does not suit NBN users well. An example of how to configure an IPFire device with SOHO LAN is: [[Media:IPFire_SOHO.png]] [[User:Rpeters|Rod]] [[Category:Technical Info]] 453cb8592faa28229852d64716e4bc860a7d3703 1751 1750 2018-09-08T00:13:16Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki This is a fairly flexible firewall-router software, that is freely downloadable: [https://www.ipfire.org/download IPFire Download] *default is ISO image for x86_64 hardware **image for i586 also available **image for ARM hardware supports limited range see: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/hardware/arm/start IPFire ARM Devices] Those preferring commercial products can purchase hardware having IPFire preinstalled: [https://www.ipfire.org/hardware Preinstalled Hardware] A guide to installation and configuration is at: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/installation/start IPFire Installation] The IPFire project deprecates using modems in routing mode. That does not suit NBN users well. An example of how to configure an IPFire device with SOHO LAN is: [[Media:IPFire_SOHO.png Example SOHO LAN]] [[User:Rpeters|Rod]] [[Category:Technical Info]] 3b96d7b0f1e877a96d6f4333826391459ae373e0 1752 1751 2018-09-08T00:15:40Z Rpeters 14 primarily to provide practical example using routed modem wikitext text/x-wiki This is a fairly flexible firewall-router software, that is freely downloadable: [https://www.ipfire.org/download IPFire Download] *default is ISO image for x86_64 hardware **image for i586 also available **image for ARM hardware supports limited range see: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/hardware/arm/start IPFire ARM Devices] Those preferring commercial products can purchase hardware having IPFire preinstalled: [https://www.ipfire.org/hardware Preinstalled Hardware] A guide to installation and configuration is at: [https://wiki.ipfire.org/installation/start IPFire Installation] The IPFire project deprecates using modems in routing mode. That does not suit NBN users well. An example of how to configure an IPFire device with SOHO LAN is: [[Media:IPFire_SOHO.png]] [[User:Rpeters|Rod]] [[Category:Technical Info]] 453cb8592faa28229852d64716e4bc860a7d3703 6 249 1749 2018-09-08T00:09:20Z Rpeters 14 example topology of SOHO LAN using IPFire with modem in routing mode. Not covered in IPFire project's documentation wikitext text/x-wiki example topology of SOHO LAN using IPFire with modem in routing mode. Not covered in IPFire project's documentation 96d0b5346560c1f744f00132975103b9d0a76fa2 0 217 1753 1404 2018-10-14T01:03:41Z Rpeters 14 added page for Multi-media wikitext text/x-wiki * [[Additional HDD]] *[[Multi-media]] *[[Network]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] 3311ee6858cc923bba7745e3885136517c9545ee 0 250 1754 2018-10-14T01:07:44Z Rpeters 14 added ffmpeg wikitext text/x-wiki ffmpeg is a command line tool. To convert between video formats use eg: ffmpeg -i input.avi output.mp4 [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 1ed5e16e319baa6f3c0f2c661ab91647966c8d40 0 216 1759 1380 2021-02-04T05:52:10Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki *[[Linux at PCUG Centre]] *[[USB demo/installer]] *[["Live" CD]] *[[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] f1bacb28f66fcf5f6065f2a19ea458a57dab8a43 0 251 1760 2021-02-04T06:01:32Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has two prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill The..." wikitext text/x-wiki ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has two prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill The product is available from: [USB-image,http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download] df682dd5e572cab3e68b9aeddd22be3f5f5a7cd1 1761 1760 2021-02-04T06:09:17Z Rpeters 14 /* rEFInd */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has three prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill *USB flash media, of at least 8 GB (USB3 preferred) The product is available from: [USB-image,http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download] *(caution) insert USB media and run "lsblk" to ascertain it's drive letter - sd(x) **getting this wrong can result in the existing OS being overwritten *(advisable) clear the USB drive - "dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter> *unzip <refind...zip> | dd of=/dev/sd<your drive letter> bs=4M 2ad074330a9d59a08e896f51f60d0fb0d995c57c 1762 1761 2021-02-04T06:14:03Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Technical */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has three prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill *USB flash media, of at least 8 GB (USB3 preferred) The product is available from: [USB-image,http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download] *(caution) insert USB media and run "lsblk" to ascertain it's drive letter - sd(x) **getting this wrong can result in the existing OS being overwritten *(advisable) clear the USB drive - "dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter> *unzip <refind...zip> | dd of=/dev/sd<your drive letter> bs=4M *use GParted (preferably) to create additional partitions, one for each distribution ISO **oversize each partition a little, to allow for later releases being larger **format each partition to (preferably) "unformatted" **give each partition both "label" and "name" relevant to the distro ISO to be installed there 3cbfe57eda7c67c6f907f54423a830ee53bc8eed 1763 1762 2021-02-04T06:25:17Z Rpeters 14 /* rEFInd */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has three prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill *USB flash media, of at least 8 GB (USB3 preferred) The product is available from: [USB-image,http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download] *(caution) insert USB media and run "lsblk" to ascertain it's drive letter - sd(x) **getting this wrong can result in the existing OS being overwritten *(advisable) clear the USB drive - "dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter> bs=1M count=8 *unzip <refind...zip> | dd of=/dev/sd<your drive letter> bs=4M **test boot this on any UEFI computer ***it should display pretty icons - including one for "shutdown" ***if not, have you disabled "CSM" & "secure-boot", in UEFI ? (essential) *return the USB device to a booted Linux computer *use GParted (preferably) to create additional partitions, one for each distribution ISO **oversize each partition a little, to allow for later releases being larger **format each partition to (preferably) "unformatted" **give each partition both "label" and "name" relevant to the distro ISO to be installed there *copy one disto ISO to its relevant partition: *"dd if=<required-distro.iso> of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter><partition-number> bs=4M **test boot this on any UEFI computer *copy additional ISO, to separate partitions 2fbb63549aeebbdbd17aa872863cda19f245947f 1764 1763 2021-02-04T06:26:09Z Rpeters 14 /* rEFInd */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has three prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill *USB flash media, of at least 8 GB (USB3 preferred) The product is available from: [USB-image,http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download] *(caution) insert USB media and run "lsblk" to ascertain it's drive letter - sd(x) **getting this wrong can result in the existing OS being overwritten *(advisable) clear the USB drive - "dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter> bs=1M count=8" *unzip <refind...zip> | dd of=/dev/sd<your drive letter> bs=4M **test boot this on any UEFI computer ***it should display pretty icons - including one for "shutdown" ***if not, have you disabled "CSM" & "secure-boot", in UEFI ? (essential) *return the USB device to a booted Linux computer *use GParted (preferably) to create additional partitions, one for each distribution ISO **oversize each partition a little, to allow for later releases being larger **format each partition to (preferably) "unformatted" **give each partition both "label" and "name" relevant to the distro ISO to be installed there *copy one disto ISO to its relevant partition: *"dd if=<required-distro.iso> of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter><partition-number> bs=4M **test boot this on any UEFI computer *copy additional ISO, to separate partitions 98fa6de9e39dde7337f560f365631a7be8b97d6b 1765 1764 2021-02-04T06:29:53Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Technical */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has three prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill *USB flash media, of at least 8 GB (USB3 preferred) The product is available from: [http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download USB-image] *(caution) insert USB media and run "lsblk" to ascertain it's drive letter - sd(x) **getting this wrong can result in the existing OS being overwritten *(advisable) clear the USB drive - "dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter> bs=1M count=8" *unzip <refind...zip> | dd of=/dev/sd<your drive letter> bs=4M **test boot this on any UEFI computer ***it should display pretty icons - including one for "shutdown" ***if not, have you disabled "CSM" & "secure-boot", in UEFI ? (essential) *return the USB device to a booted Linux computer *use GParted (preferably) to create additional partitions, one for each distribution ISO **oversize each partition a little, to allow for later releases being larger **format each partition to (preferably) "unformatted" **give each partition both "label" and "name" relevant to the distro ISO to be installed there *copy one disto ISO to its relevant partition: *"dd if=<required-distro.iso> of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter><partition-number> bs=4M" **test boot this on any UEFI computer *copy additional ISO, to separate partitions f0b7566599cf6a73d3f21f5cada8f1a7a7977839 0 251 1766 1765 2021-02-04T06:32:01Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Technical */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has three prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill *USB flash media, of at least 8 GB (USB3 preferred) The product is available from: [http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download USB-image] *(caution) insert USB media and run "lsblk" to ascertain it's drive letter - sd(x) **getting this wrong can result in the existing OS being overwritten *(advisable) clear the USB drive - "dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter> bs=1M count=8" *unzip <refind...zip> | dd of=/dev/sd<your drive letter> bs=4M **test boot this on any UEFI computer ***it should display pretty icons - including one for "shutdown" ***if not, have you disabled "CSM" & "secure-boot", in UEFI ? (essential) *return the USB device to a booted Linux computer *use GParted (preferably) to create additional partitions, one for each distribution ISO **oversize each partition a little, to allow for later releases being larger **format each partition to (preferably) "unformatted" **give each partition both "label" and "name" relevant to the distro ISO to be installed there *copy one disto ISO to its relevant partition: *"dd if=<required-distro.iso> of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter><partition-number> bs=4M" **test boot this on any UEFI computer *as required, copy additional ISO, to separate partitions 61babc4340c8f25667ac8cfd6282ed45ace3b67e 1767 1766 2021-02-04T20:58:16Z Rpeters 14 /* rEFInd */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has three prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill *USB flash media, of at least 8 GB (USB3 preferred) The product is available from: [http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download USB-image] *(caution) insert USB media and run "lsblk" to ascertain it's drive letter - sd(x) **getting this wrong can result in the existing OS being overwritten *(advisable) clear the USB drive - "dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter> bs=1M count=8" *unzip <refind...zip> *dd if=refind-flashdrive-<.n.n.n>.img of=/dev/sd<your USB drive letter> bs=4M **test boot this on any UEFI computer ***it should display pretty icons - including one for "shutdown" ***if not, have you disabled "CSM" & "secure-boot", in UEFI ? (essential) *return the USB device to a booted Linux computer *use GParted (preferably) to create additional partitions, one for each distribution ISO **oversize each partition a little, to allow for later releases being larger **format each partition to (preferably) "unformatted" **give each partition both "label" and "name" relevant to the distro ISO to be placed there *copy one disto ISO to its relevant partition: *"dd if=<required-distro.iso> of=/dev/sd<your USB drive letter><partition-number> bs=4M" **test boot this on any UEFI computer *as required, copy additional ISO, to separate partitions *for more detailed guides, see: [https://www.rodsbooks.com/refind/ RodsBooks site] 59cef27447aeff3804251bffd8517a37da5ec727 1773 1767 2021-10-03T01:26:03Z Rpeters 14 /* Getting Technical */ wikitext text/x-wiki ==For General Users== ==Getting Technical == === rEFInd === This very flexible product has three prerequisites: *computer having modern, UEFI, firmware *user having modicum of command line skill *USB flash media, of at least 8 GB (USB3 preferred) The product is available from: [http://sourceforge.net/projects/refind/files/0.12.0/refind-flashdrive-0.12.0.zip/download USB-image] *(caution) insert USB media and run "lsblk" to ascertain it's drive letter - sd(x) **getting this wrong can result in the existing OS being overwritten *(advisable) clear the USB drive - "dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd<your drive USB letter> bs=1M count=8" *unzip <refind...zip> *dd if=refind-flashdrive-<.n.n.n>.img of=/dev/sd<your USB drive letter> bs=4M **test boot this on any UEFI computer ***it should display pretty icons - including one for "shutdown" ***if not, have you disabled "CSM" & "secure-boot", in UEFI ? (essential) *return the USB device to a booted Linux computer *use GParted (preferably) to create additional partitions, one for each distribution ISO **oversize each partition a little, to allow for later releases being larger **format each partition to (preferably) "unformatted" **give each partition both "label" and "name" relevant to the distro ISO to be placed there *copy one disto ISO to its relevant partition: *"dd if=<required-distro.iso> of=/dev/sd<your USB drive letter><partition-number> bs=4M" **test boot this on any UEFI computer *as required, copy additional ISO, to separate partitions *for more detailed guides, see: [https://www.rodsbooks.com/refind/ RodsBooks site] 4c398d2108a28286eb18be3b4da8ef18ffaeac85 0 165 1768 1744 2021-06-10T23:03:59Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == New users of Linux may find that their printer (and scanner) is neither supported nor supportable. Simplest option is to (carefully) purchase a new printer. === Selection Guideance === *printers that were manufactured after 2009 and connect via Ethernet or wifi are likely to be usable without drivers **this is potentially the best support for Linux **from CLI, run "driverless list" ***only printers that report an interface of "ipp://<blah.blah.blah>" are likely to be usable driverless ***see below for an outline of setting up driverless printing *if a printer must use a driver then be aware that Linux uses Postscript or PDF technology as the basis for its print sub-system **printers that use Postscript, PDF or perhaps PCL print languages are readily supportable and likely to remain so **most entry-level printers do '''not''' use those technologies, that require additonal processing resouces, which in turn adds cost **be prepared to purchase a mid-range printer (or multi-function device). '''All''' of the following pre-purchase research is strongly recommended *'''read''' general guidance at https://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Purchasing_a_Printer_and_Compatibility *'''download''' the relevant driver from the manufacturer's web site *check for availability of alternate drivers at: http://www.openprinting.org/printers *'''install''' the relevant driver prior to purchase **in almost all cases this can be achieved without the printer physically present *seek assistance in a Linux forum if the drivers are not available or don't install === Troubleshooting === ==== Administration ==== The most reliable tool is the command line tool "lpadmin". The print sub-system used in Linux, CUPS, is heading towards driverless printing. To try driverless printing run the following commands: <nowiki>$ driverless list</nowiki> <nowiki>will list applicable powered-on printers on your LAN - only those having URL beginning with ipp:// are likely to work driverless</nowiki> Then execute <nowiki># lpadmin -p <parameter> -v <parameter> -m everywhere -E</nowiki> see man lpadmin for suitable - p parameter. The -v parameter must be the exact ipp:// URL reported by "driverless list" "driverless" printing can also be configured via the webbrowser GUI, URL http://localhost:631 *in this case it is essential to use the ipp:// style URL for the network printer **copy and paste it from output of the "driverlees list" command, if necessary *in the next page, select manufacturer **at least two solutions should be found for a printer model "ajax fancy printer" ***ajax fancy printer some driver of some sort ***ajax fancy priner driverless **highlight the latter, then click on "modify printer" A widely deployed GUI printer configuration tool is "system-config-printer". It is the default in many distributions but currently does not handle driverless printing. It may appear in the start menu under various names, eg: *Print Settings Alternative print admin tools are included in the administration menu of some distributions **these might not detect driverless printers or downloaded drivers and are thus less reliable ====Firmware Upgrade==== Apart from the abiility to print without a specific driver, Driverless printing can have other advantages: *might find more capabilities and options in a printer than are included in the Linux driver A Firmware upgrade to the printer might have advantages: *enable driverless printing, whereas not previously available *increase functionality eg **page sizes **duplexing **resolution There will always be a risk that a firmware upgrade will fail and render the printer unusable *UPS can generally support inkjet printers during the upgrade *but Laser printers draw much more current for the fuser ====Can't Access Web Interface ==== Some distributions require additional privilleges, that are controlled by the parameter "SystemGroup" in the file /etc/cups/cups-files.conf *make a note of the groups permitted via that parameter *8under usual user administration, add user to one of those groups (other than root) *or complete the pop-up authorisation as user "root" ====Can't Access Network Printers ==== Major paradigm shifts occurred with CUPS 1.6 and again with CUPS 2.2. *"avahi" must now be installed to provide DNSSD services and find network printers or print servers **it must also be installed on computers that are operating as print servers ==== Failure to Print ==== Failure to print, although the driver is installed, can result from unsuitable settings. #from the CUPS Administration tab, select #*Manage Printers -> Set Default Options #check the settings for and adjuxt if necessary ##paper size (usually A4 is appropriate) ##paper source (tray (cassette) or manual) A paradigm shift occurred with Foomatic 4.n *Applications now prepare jobs as a PDF file, in lieu Postscript *opensource drivers (PPD files) should have been converted *binary drivers from manufacturers might not have been **LibreOffice allows selection of print job format under Tools -> Options -> Print ***'''deselect''' "PDF as standard print job (not all compilations of LibreOffice have this option) ***although this could be done, on a per job basis, via the print dialog Print Properties -> Device -> Printer Language to be changed to Postscript; this mode is buggy for landscape orientation pages === Printer/Multi-Function Device Recommendations === The following factors might assist preparation of a "short-list" *HP provide Linux support for most of their devices **low-end devices would be reliant on continuation of this support, as would be the case with other brands *Fuji-Xerox have argueably the best colour laser technology **CP/CM 305 series are the lowest cost models having Linux support **and are competitively priced, for the capability provided *Brother multi-functions all support scanning via network **mid-range models do use Postscript and should be supportable long-term *Epson printers are often supported **drivers included with Linux often don't support higher resolutions **full-function drivers are available from http://download.ebz.epson.net/dsc/search/01/search/?OSC=LX **most multi-function devices will scan via network interface, as of mid-2017 **Epson's procedure for client/server scanning gets other brands working too == Getting Technical == A good introduction to CUPS is at: http://support.fccps.cz/download/adv/frr/cups_howto/cups_howto.htm It also contains some tips for tuning. --[[User:Rpeters|Rod]] ([[User talk:Rpeters|talk]]) 16:32, 3 May 2018 (AEST) [[Category:Technical Info]] [[Category:Recommendations]] 22124b1770aa70b721942f0d8ce8029992e5f202 0 7 1769 1745 2021-10-02T03:44:48Z Rpeters 14 /* Linux */ wikitext text/x-wiki __NOTOC__ This page is to support a wide variety of technical IT related hints, help guides, howtos and tips, contributed by members on a range of IT related topics of interest. Some selected categories of information are shown below. Member contributions are encouraged, see [[Info_Wiki:About|About this Wiki]], [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]], and the navigation [[Help:Contents|Help]] page for guidance on doing this. <font color=green>Please note that '''information related specifically to''' accessing and using the '''PCUG's 'The Internet Project' (TIP)''' are provided on the '''[http://www.tip.net.au/wiki/ TIP Wiki]'''</font> Please include a link to <nowiki>[[</nowiki>{{ns:category}}:Technical Info]] at the bottom of any page you create in this area. <!-- Define Outer Table --> {|style="border-spacing:8px;margin:0px -8px" |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top;color:#000"| <!-- Start of 1st column in own table --> {|width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background-color:#cef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| ===Computer Systems=== |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Android ==== * [[Getting Started with Android]] * [[Android_App_Recommendations]] * [[Connect Android to Computer]] ==== Apple ==== * [[iPad_App_Recommendations]] * [[iPhone_App_Recommendations]] ==== Cross-Platform ==== *[[Apps Recommended]] ==== Linux ==== * [[Beginners Start Here]] * [[Linux at PCUG Centre]] * [[Evaluation]] * [[Desktop Appearance]] * [[Installation]] * [[Configuration]] * [[Recovery]] *[[Security]] ==== Smart devices==== * [[QR codes]] ==== Windows ==== * [[File sharing between Win7 and XP]] * [[File sharing between Windows and other OS]] * [[Two Page Display]] * [[Win7 Snipping Tool]] * [[Win7 Hardware Recommendations]] ==== Windows 8 ==== * [[Do I need Windows 8?]] * [[Editing Windows 8 - Usefuls]] * [[Safe mode]] * [[Install a Start button]] * [[Confirmation of file delete]] * [[File history]] * [[Storage Spaces]] * [[MRU]] * [[CD/DVD player]] * [[Computer icon on desktop]] |- |} <!-- Start of 2nd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |- |style="margin:0;background:#fef2e0;border:1px solid #a3bfb1;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Internet === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Access ==== * [[Internet Access Alternatives]] ==== E-mail ==== * [[Scams]] * [[Spam]] * [[Handling Email SPAM]] * [[Scareware]] * [[Long URLs]] * [[Macros]] ==== Family Trees ==== * [[Sharing Family Tree Information]] ==== Web ==== * [[Webmail attachments]] ==== Web Hosting ==== * [[Web hosting]] ** [[Web hosting in action]] *** [[A real project]] ==== Microsoft Web Platform Installer ==== * [[Web PI]] ==== Wikis ==== * [[Getting Started Editing Wiki Pages]] * [[More_on_Working_with_Wikis]] * [[Wiki Skins]] |- |} <!-- Start of 3rd column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cedff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Peripherals === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== DVDs and Bootable USBs ==== * [[Booting from Removable Media]] * [[Using dotISO Files]] * [[Creating Bootable DOS USB Memory Stick]] ==== External Drives ==== * [[External_Drives]] ==== Monitors & Projectors ==== * [[Full Screen Mode]] * [[PCUG Training Room - Notes for Presenters]] * [[Using an External Display or Projector with a Notebook]] ==== Printers ==== * [[Cleaning Printheads]] * [[Parallel Port Printers]] * [[Printer_Driver_not_Available]] * [[Printing via Network]] * [[Sharing Printers via CUPS]] ==== Scanners ==== * [[Scanning Slides using CanoScan]] * [[Scanning via Network]] |- |} <!-- Start of 4th column in own table --> |class="MainPageBG" style="width:25%;border:1px solid #cedff2;background-color:#f5faff;vertical-align:top"| {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Software === |- |style="color:#000"| ==== Backup ==== *[[Clonezilla]] *[[Interesting_Techniques]] ==== Firewall ==== * [[Firewall_Software]] * [[IPFire]] ==== General ==== * [[Interesting_Programs]] *[[PDF_Manipulation]] ==== Image and Photo Editing ==== * [[GIMP]] ==== Office ==== *[[Calligra]] * [[OpenOffice]] ==== Terminal Emulation ==== *[[Terminal_Emulation]] ==== Vector Drawing ==== * [[OpenOffice Draw]] * [[Inkscape]] |- {| width="100%" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="5" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#f5faff" |style="margin:0;background-color:#cefff2;border:1px solid #a3b0bf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding:0.2em 0.4em;"| === Hardware === ==== Disks ==== *[[Advanced Format (AF) Drives]] *[[Floppy Disk Conversion]] *[[Secure Erasure]] *[[Solid State Drives (SSD)]] ==== Gateway_Router ==== *[[Choice of Type]] *[[Commercial]] *[[DIY_Firewall_Router]] ==== Sub-Compact Computers ==== *[[Android MK802 Pocket PC]] *[[Raspberry Pi]] *[[Serial_Console]] ==== Desk-Top Computers ==== *[[HP ProDesk 400 G1]] ==== Telephone ==== *[[NBN]] *[[TransACT]] *[[VoiP]] |- |} |} == Related Pages == [[Category:Technical Info]] 922eb0a55eb4d665e9b45e2a05fd5a0d15286e15 0 252 1770 2021-10-02T03:50:56Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "An essential starting point is a "Live DVD"" wikitext text/x-wiki An essential starting point is a "Live DVD" ffbe16a129d3c147a5c72a2ef0f00da17ed17840 1771 1770 2021-10-02T04:06:30Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki An essential starting point is a "Live DVD" [["Live" CD]] Although traditionally referred to as a Live CD, most are now too large for a CD and are a Live DVD instead. It can also be put on a USB Stick, because many modern computers do not have a DVD drive. c97a080c7326651db7b7393c16f7813a96011779 1782 1771 2021-10-04T22:35:26Z Rpeters 14 added wikilink Selecting Distribution wikitext text/x-wiki An essential starting point is a "Live DVD" [["Live" CD]] Although traditionally referred to as a Live CD, most are now too large for a CD and are a Live DVD instead. It can also be put on a USB Stick, because many modern computers do not have a DVD drive. [[Selecting Distribution | Which Linux]] 8964532d1be8160455a42a39c8ead4544e23c91f 1783 1782 2021-10-04T22:37:35Z Rpeters 14 added wikilink Mistakes to Avoid wikitext text/x-wiki An essential starting point is a "Live DVD" [["Live" CD]] Although traditionally referred to as a Live CD, most are now too large for a CD and are a Live DVD instead. It can also be put on a USB Stick, because many modern computers do not have a DVD drive. [[Selecting Distribution | Which Linux]] [[Mistakes to Avoid]] 6fc62f5bacab90d3056bfb6275236f6640ee4a09 0 216 1772 1759 2021-10-03T01:22:32Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki *[[USB demo/installer]] *[["Live" CD]] *[[Migration Guide and Links to Documentation]] *[[Printing]] *[[Scanning]] *[[Linux at PCUG Centre]] 518436cbe193001c0fb29f57a1c2707cb420104f 0 219 1774 1646 2021-10-03T01:29:28Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Most Linux can be run from a "Live" CD/DVD/USB media, without installing '''anything''' on the computer's hard drive *desirable for evaluation of Linux on computers having Windows installed, where inexpert installation could overwrite Windows **the Windows disk could be electrically disconnected, as an added precaution *enables unknown Linux to be evaluated for functionality & ease of use *'''NB''' any software will take relatively long to load and be relatively slow to run in this mode **SD (or microSD) card, of Class 10 or better rating, in a SD-USB reader will load software many times faster than a DVD drive. Live CD/DVD/USB can be created via most operating systems, using files that are mostly free to download from the Internet. See: [[Using dotISO Files]] 3e476c56c2806dedbd715bd60906b9cca7db6c73 0 16 1775 1353 2021-10-03T01:40:18Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. *now available for download, to reinstall failing Windows 8, 10 or 11 *continue to be the main format for Linux downloads These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be used on '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ==== Caution re SD Cards ==== According to Wikipedia, SD cards contain areas that should '''NOT''' be reformatted. The SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for safe re-formatting of SD cards The routines commonly used to produce '''bootable''' SD cards (mostly for Linux but also DOS systems for Firmware upgrades) might overwrite these areas. Experience has shown that: *bootable SD media perform the intended task well (although speed would depend on class of card) *SD cards that are to then be used for second or subsequent bootable images require special pre-treatment - See "Strictly for Geeks" below SD cards that are later reverted from use as bootable media to use for general storage might perform poorly in the latter application ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x) #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] b3e583bd20928ad34261744facfefbb56704589f 1776 1775 2021-10-03T01:54:18Z Rpeters 14 updated advice re SD cards and brought USB devices earlier in document. Changed recommended USB writer to Ventoy wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. *now available for download, to reinstall failing Windows 8, 10 or 11 *continue to be the main format for Linux downloads These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be used on '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ISO files are typically more than 1 GB in size and will load relatively slowly from USB 2.0 media. New, quality USB 3.0 "thumb drives", of at least 8 GB capacity, are advisable and relatively inexpensive. ==== Cautions re SD Cards ==== *even quality, fast-rated SD cards are highly dependent on the card reader used - USB thumb drives are a better choice for beginners *"File Explorer" might not be able to optimally reformat used SD cards. SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for best re-formatting of SD cards The routines commonly used to produce '''bootable''' SD cards (mostly for Linux but also DOS systems for Firmware upgrades) might overwrite these areas. Experience has shown that: *bootable SD media perform the intended task well (although speed would depend on class of card) *SD cards that are to then be used for second or subsequent bootable images require special pre-treatment - See "Strictly for Geeks" below SD cards that are later reverted from use as bootable media to use for general storage might perform poorly in the latter application ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x) #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 766d525e98f366b400918e4f148c38573efb21b9 1777 1776 2021-10-03T01:58:39Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. *now available for download, to reinstall failing Windows 8, 10 or 11 *continue to be the main format for Linux downloads These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be used on '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ISO files are typically more than 1 GB in size and will load relatively slowly from USB 2.0 media. New, quality USB 3.0 "thumb drives", of at least 8 GB capacity, are advisable and relatively inexpensive. ==== Cautions re SD Cards ==== *even quality, fast-rated SD cards are highly dependent on the card reader used - USB thumb drives are a better choice for beginners *"File Explorer" might not be able to optimally reformat used SD cards. SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for best re-formatting of SD cards ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install "Ventoy" [[https://ventoy.net/en/download.html]] #*unetbootin is now deprecated #*Linux users install instead packge Imagewriter #*Windows users obtain instead SUSE Studio Imagewriter https://github.com/downloads/openSUSE/kiwi/ImageWriter.exe #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Imagewriter #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x) #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4ac4ffb56a460798088b6da0bc1dbc46efbf66a6 1778 1777 2021-10-03T02:05:40Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. *now available for download, to reinstall failing Windows 8, 10 or 11 *continue to be the main format for Linux downloads These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be used on '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ISO files are typically more than 1 GB in size and will load relatively slowly from USB 2.0 media. New, quality USB 3.0 "thumb drives", of at least 8 GB capacity, are advisable and relatively inexpensive. ==== Cautions re SD Cards ==== *even quality, fast-rated SD cards are highly dependent on the card reader used - USB thumb drives are a better choice for beginners *"File Explorer" might not be able to optimally reformat used SD cards. SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for best re-formatting of SD cards ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install "Ventoy" [https://ventoy.net/en/download.html Ventoy] #*available for Windows or Linux #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Ventoy #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x) #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 4e270a0d4b3a6fb4118bc999e60ae4f9d31e8fa4 1779 1778 2021-10-03T02:12:55Z Rpeters 14 changed writing procedure to suit Ventoy wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. *now available for download, to reinstall failing Windows 8, 10 or 11 *continue to be the main format for Linux downloads These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be used on '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ISO files are typically more than 1 GB in size and will load relatively slowly from USB 2.0 media. New, quality USB 3.0 "thumb drives", of at least 8 GB capacity, are advisable and relatively inexpensive. ==== Cautions re SD Cards ==== *even quality, fast-rated SD cards are highly dependent on the card reader used - USB thumb drives are a better choice for beginners *"File Explorer" might not be able to optimally reformat used SD cards. SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for best re-formatting of SD cards ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install "Ventoy" [https://ventoy.net/en/download.html Ventoy] #*available for Windows or Linux #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Ventoy #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' #locate the downloaded dotISO file(s) on hard disk #*drag & drop the file(s) to the removable media #*Windows shows the two volumes on Ventoy media as the same drive letter #*drag only to the exFAT volume == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x) #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 07f7de0ed25f61a574c1ceeba8ed778928e28c73 1780 1779 2021-10-03T02:23:01Z Rpeters 14 updated boot procedure wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. *now available for download, to reinstall failing Windows 8, 10 or 11 *continue to be the main format for Linux downloads These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be used on '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ISO files are typically more than 1 GB in size and will load relatively slowly from USB 2.0 media. New, quality USB 3.0 "thumb drives", of at least 8 GB capacity, are advisable and relatively inexpensive. ==== Cautions re SD Cards ==== *even quality, fast-rated SD cards are highly dependent on the card reader used - USB thumb drives are a better choice for beginners *"File Explorer" might not be able to optimally reformat used SD cards. SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for best re-formatting of SD cards ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install "Ventoy" [https://ventoy.net/en/download.html Ventoy] #*available for Windows or Linux #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Ventoy #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' #locate the downloaded dotISO file(s) on hard disk #*drag & drop the file(s) to the removable media #*Windows shows the two volumes on Ventoy media as the same drive letter #*drag only to the exFAT volume ===Booting Live Media=== #take the Ventoy device containing dotISO files to the computer to be used #*boot/reboot and go to "Setup" #*in "Boot" tab, ensure that booting from '''USB HDD''' is enabled #**a Ventoy device does not behave as a USB DVD #*(optionally) make USB HDD the first boot device #**if this is not done, the relevant Function key will need to be pressed, at boot time, to select the Ventoy device #*save settings and reboot #select required dotISO #*Ventoy should display a menu, from which the desired dotISO can be selected == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x) #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 18f551d3c16112487d0eddc2518925e39aac332b 1781 1780 2021-10-03T02:31:11Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki == For General Users == ===Purpose=== Files having the extension *.ISO may be new to some readers. *now available for download, to reinstall failing Windows 8, 10 or 11 *continue to be the main format for Linux downloads These files are essentially an image of a CD, DVD (or BlueRay ?) optical media and usually images of bootable media. dotISO files may be downloaded, saved, copied to other disks/volumes/folders etc, exactly like any other file. However, they require special processing to achieve their usual purpose of producing a '''bootable''' media *originally dotISO were intended for CD/DVD media *the same files may now be used on '''bootable''' USB/SD media **this requires a '''different''' program to write the media The bootable media are typically used for one of: * a "live" demonstration system - often based on Linux * running software for backing up systems and/or data * installing operating systems * "rescue" systems {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#c93800; background:#d0c9cc">'''those not familiar with operating systems need to execise caution with the last two'''</span> |} === Writing Bootable USB/SD === ISO files are typically more than 1 GB in size and will load relatively slowly from USB 2.0 media. New, quality USB 3.0 "thumb drives", of at least 8 GB capacity, are advisable and relatively inexpensive. ==== Cautions re SD Cards ==== *even quality, fast-rated SD cards are highly dependent on the card reader used - USB thumb drives are a better choice for beginners *"File Explorer" might not be able to optimally reformat used SD cards. SD Card Consortium provides an App "SD Formater" for best re-formatting of SD cards ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this method is relatively safe for Linux & Windows users #*it should suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install "Ventoy" [https://ventoy.net/en/download.html Ventoy] #*available for Windows or Linux #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch Ventoy #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' #locate the downloaded dotISO file(s) on hard disk #*drag & drop the file(s) to the removable media #*Windows shows the two volumes on Ventoy media as the same drive letter #*drag only to the exFAT volume ===Booting Live Media=== #take the Ventoy device containing dotISO files to the computer to be used #*boot/reboot and go to "Setup" #*in "Boot" tab, ensure that booting from '''USB HDD''' is enabled #**a Ventoy device does not behave as a USB DVD #*(optionally) make USB HDD the first boot device #**if this is not done, the relevant Function key will need to be pressed, at boot time, to select the Ventoy device #*save settings and reboot #select required dotISO #*Ventoy should display a menu, from which the desired dotISO can be selected #*a dotISO can take a minute or longer to load, even on fast USB drives #*most dotISO display some form of progress "meter" #*a few do not ===Running from Live Media=== *a session may be run indefinitely **any work created/edited will generally '''not''' be saved *a running dotISO will generally have a menu item/icon to "shutdown" **no additional action is required to close a Ventoy session == Getting Technical == '''non Windows users''' README === Writing Bootable USB/SD === {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''Linux users need to execise great caution with the this procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} Linux users can use the command <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> to cross check which storage devices are recognised All users should cross-check which removable device is to be written by examining the manufacturer ID, partition size, filesystem type (FAT 32) reported by the Operating System ==== Writing ISO Files ==== #this procedure can be achieved via GUI tools #*it shoulc suceed with all dotISO files, provided that those are bootable images #obtain and install a suitable program #*unetbootin is one of the better known #ensure that the USB/SD media to be used is formatted '''FAT 32''' #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #launch unetbootin #*locate the downloaded dotISO file on hard disk #*select the USB/SD media to be written #*click ''' OK''' ===Burning Bootable CD/DVD=== #this will be the simpest and most reliable approach for beginners #*virtually any computer now in use can boot CD/DVD #*most OS have suitable software for burning CD/DVD #a common mistake made by novices is to use their favourite burner software to '''copy''' a *.ISO file to a blank CD/DVD - <span style="color:#c93800;;background:#d0c9cc">'''incorrect'''</span> as explained at http://www.puppylinux.com/cd-puppy.htm {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''Correct procedure is to use a special option in the burner software to "burn CD ISO image" or "burn DVD ISO image". </span> |} ==== Windows 7 ==== #via Windows Explorer is the simplest procedure for beginners #*locate the ISO file in Windows Explorer and right-click it. You will get various options #*click on 'Open with' then choose 'Windows Disc Image Burner' to produce a bootable CD/DVD #*to be prudent, tick the 'Verify disc after burning' box''' #popular burner software Nero has a similar option. Detailed procedure is available at the following site: http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=creating_the_livecd_with_nero #*simply select your dotISO file in lieu of partedmagic.iso #if none of the above options are available get the product ftp://terabyteunlimited.com/burncdcc.zip and install that {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;"� |<span style="color:#004700; background:#d0c9cc">'''It makes the operation foolproof, because its ''only'' function is to burn ISO images to CD/DVD''' |} ==== Other OS ==== #most Linux will include CD/DVD burning software such as k3b, XFreeBurn etc, which include the function to "burn CD ISO image" ==== Choice of Optical Media ==== #dotISO disks must be "bit-perfect" #*avoid using cheap media blanks that are sold primarily for audio/video use #*setting a slower burn speed might produce more reliable results when using untested burner/media combination #dotISO images that are smaller than 700 MB may be burnt to DVD media #*most burner software will cope with this #*doing so is likely to result in the media reading somewhat faster than would be the case with CD media and this can be advantageous for the uses described above. #dotISO images >700 MB but << a full DVD of 4.3 GB will often be encountered #*these must be burned to DVD media #dotISO images > a full DVD size of 4.3 GB are occassionally encountered #*these can be burned only to '''dual-layer''' DVD media #*such media is relatively expensive and #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably #avoid burning dotISO to 80 mm diameter mini-CD/DVD #*from which the read process would be relatively slow #*not all releases of burner software handle it reliably == Strictly for Geeks == === SD Cards === If an SD card is to be '''re-used''' then the following preparation should be followed #attach the card to a Linux PC via a card reader #use <nowiki># lsblk</nowiki> #*to identify the device as sd(x) #run <nowiki># dd if=/dev/zero of=/dev/sd(x) bs=1M count=8</nowiki> #*to zero the first 8M #*this is the notional "first cylinder" used by Windows devices and to which they might store filesystem metadata Experienced users tend to use "dd" to write ISO images to SD cards *SD cards use very large block sizes and will write slowly with the common 4 kiB block size *small block sizes might also cause unnecessary write cycle - the mortal enemy of flash memory devices Therefore run <nowiki># dd if=<path to ISO image> of=/dev/sd(x) bs=4M </nowiki> *to write the image. === Using/Creating ISOhybrid Files === This task is for intermediate/advanced users ==== Overview ==== Some dotISO files are now being provided as "ISOhybrids" *which have the main advantage of typically booting much faster from USB/SD devices **because most OS use conservative settings to boot USB/SD devices, in order to cope with older/buggy BIOS *boot speed is also highly dependent on the "Class" of SD media and (probably) unstated/indeterminate grade of USB "thumbdrive" ISOhybrids may also be burnt to conventional CD/DVD/Bluray optical media, or written to USB/SD media, as in general/intermediate procedures above *hence the "hybrid" descriptor *but require the alternative procedure below to achieve faster performance from USB/SD devices ==== Hybridisation ==== #this procedure may be skipped, if the ISO is known to already be hybridised #dotISO of unknown type may safely be converted to hybridISO via the program "isohybrid" #*the conversion adds a few tens of kB, if the ISO is not already hybridised #**which may push the ISO beyond the maximum capacity of optical media #**alhough these ISOhybrids could still be written to USB/SD media, as in intermediate procedures above, or advanced precedures following. #*it makes no perceptable difference if the ISO is already hybridised {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the following procedure - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==== Writing ISOhybrids ==== #as a precaution, disconnect all other USB devices from the computer #*including printers, scanners, mobile broadband sticks, modems etc #**any of which could include "storage" #verify the drive letter/number of the USB/SD media #*in Windows use "Computer" menu and open the drive #*in other OS use "My Computer", hdparm, fdisk etc #*check by manufacturer ID, size, partitioning etc #the partitioning/format of the USB/SD media to be used is probably immaterial #*if in doubt, format the single/first partition as '''FAT 32''' #launch a program for direct writing disk images of storage media eg #*in Windows use http://www.softpedia.com/get/CD-DVD-Tools/Data-CD-DVD-Burning/Win32-Disk-Imager.shtml or "rawwrite" #*in other OS use "dd" (or preferably "ddrescue") #**in this procedure "dd" operates on an '''unmounted''' device #more detailed instructions are at: http://en.opensuse.org/SDB:Live_USB_stick#Bootable_USB_from_DVD_or_Net-install {|border="1" align="center" style="text-align:center;" |<span style="color:red; background:#d0c9cc">'''execise great caution with the above programs - an error in selecting the USB/SD device could result in hard disk partition being overwritten'''</span> |} ==Booting from Media== [[Booting from Removable Media]] --[[User:Rpeters|Rpeters]] 12:09, 24 August 2012 (EST) --[[Category:Technical Info]] 949afedf529c6af1a4ee8be1ee8257ef01791f26 0 253 1784 2021-10-04T22:58:41Z Rpeters 14 introduced concepts of distribution and desktop environment wikitext text/x-wiki An individual release of Linux is called a "Distribution". The name of the dotISO file that is released often defines the two major components of a distribution: *distributer's name eg "Mint" *Desktop Envrionment ("look & feel") eg MATE That file is then named along the lines "Mint MATE nnn.iso" Mint MATE is a suggested starting point, that is reliable and straight-forward for general users, but might not suit advanced users. The following site contains a selector for various characteristics of distributions eg laptop v desktop, newer v older hardware, "based on": https://distrowatch.com/search.php The terminology "based on" is usually not included in the file name. It refers to whether the distribution is a boutique, independent collation (not recommended for beginners) or derived from a more widely used distribution. The latter is likely to provide a wider selection of apps, as well as being more stable. 7e1c6aae43ea387b1323a2344c67bff00c4daced 0 254 1785 2021-10-04T23:11:10Z Rpeters 14 Created page with "Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the follo..." wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates 407f5a6457094f9415c258b7f35e3b3fd9177dae 1786 1785 2021-10-04T23:23:04Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates #Changing Distribution, when a different Desktop Environment would be better #many distributions have a choice of Desktop Enviroments, whilst being similar "under the hood" #Installing too Soon #*live DVD are generally free and do not time-expire #*evaluate at least '''two''' Desktop Environments #**from the same distribtion, to get the best comparison #*evaluate at least '''two''' Distributions #**staying with one Desktop Environment, to get the best comparison 246639f4ead4f8a0c07e65e1ae460d8d3085c796 1787 1786 2021-10-04T23:30:09Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates #Changing Distribution, when a different Desktop Environment would be better #*many distributions have a choice of Desktop Enviroments, whilst being similar "under the hood" #Installing too Soon #*live DVD are generally free and do not time-expire #*time to reboot from USB 3 device is relatively short #*evaluate at least '''two''' Desktop Environments #**from the same distribtion, to get the best comparison #*evaluate at least '''two''' Distributions #**staying with one Desktop Environment, to get the best comparison #Expecting '''all''' of your existing hardware to work #*Linux generally supports older hardware longer than do other OS - but #*drivers for new hardware might not be available quickly - plus d154f8e6127c9aeae4fd4fe78e7110e773e030aa 1788 1787 2021-10-04T23:35:23Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates #Changing Distribution, when a different Desktop Environment would be better #*many distributions have a choice of Desktop Enviroments, whilst being similar "under the hood" #Installing too Soon #*live DVD are generally free and do not time-expire #*time to reboot from USB 3 device is relatively short #*evaluate at least '''two''' Desktop Environments #**from the same distribtion, to get the best comparison #*evaluate at least '''two''' Distributions #**staying with one Desktop Environment, to get the best comparison #Expecting '''all''' of your existing hardware to work #*Linux generally supports older hardware longer than do other OS - but #**drivers for new hardware might not be available quickly - plus #**there is insufficient market to make Linux drivers viable for some hardware #*in general, avoid buying new hardware without doing a search for "hardware model + Linux" 4cbc2bd5e64ffb2b521ff87a7e830f0ad18b97cb 1789 1788 2021-10-04T23:48:50Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates #Not Adjusting Settings #*many apparent "anoyances", such as background image, fonts etc can quickly be changed #**a summary Handbook is often accessible via the "Help" pull-down menu #Changing Distribution, when a different Desktop Environment would be better #*many distributions have a choice of Desktop Enviroments, whilst being similar "under the hood" #Installing too Soon #*live DVD are generally free and do not time-expire #**time to reboot from USB 3 device is relatively short #*evaluate at least '''two''' Desktop Environments #**from the same Distribution, to get the best comparison #*evaluate at least '''two''' Distributions #**staying with one Desktop Environment, to get the best comparison #Expecting '''all''' of your existing hardware to work #*Linux generally supports older hardware longer than do other OS - but #**drivers for new hardware might not be available quickly - plus #**there is insufficient market to make Linux drivers viable for some hardware #*in general, avoid buying new hardware without doing a search for "hardware model + Linux" a92cdd8f2a1a1131b7368c4e410789a811947ee8 1790 1789 2021-10-05T00:02:10Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*often a longer "time to boot", on the same hardware, offset by #**fewer needs to reboot #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates #Not Adjusting Settings #*many apparent "anoyances", such as background image, fonts etc can quickly be changed #**a summary Handbook is often accessible via the "Help" pull-down menu #Changing Distribution, when a different Desktop Environment would be better #*many distributions have a choice of Desktop Enviroments, whilst being similar "under the hood" #Installing too Soon #*live DVD are generally free and do not time-expire #**time to reboot from USB 3 device is relatively short #*evaluate at least '''two''' Desktop Environments #**from the same Distribution, to get the best comparison #*evaluate at least '''two''' Distributions #**staying with one Desktop Environment, to get the best comparison #Expecting '''all''' of your existing hardware to work #*Linux generally supports older hardware longer than do other OS - but #**drivers for new hardware might not be available quickly - plus #**there is insufficient market to make Linux drivers viable for some hardware #*in general, avoid buying new hardware without doing a search for "hardware model + Linux" 3885888394f41eb206f2a83b6e657d37bf8b0c98 1791 1790 2021-10-05T00:25:13Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*often a longer "time to boot", on the same hardware, offset by #**fewer needs to reboot #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates #Expecting Linux to run (and very fast) on long superceded hardware #*specialised distributions can run remarkably well on such - but #**contemporary software, particularly for streaming, graphics editing etc require much more resources #**a dual-core (or fast single-core) CPU plus 2 GB RAM is required for reliable evaluations #**the majority of distributions have phased out releases for 32-bit computers #*popular distributions will run much better if (eventually) installed to SSD - but #**older computers don't support "AHCI", which is required to gain much benefit from SSD #Not Adjusting Settings #*many apparent "anoyances", such as background image, fonts etc can quickly be changed #**a summary Handbook is often accessible via the "Help" pull-down menu #Changing Distribution, when a different Desktop Environment would be better #*each Desktop Environment is designed & implemented for a range of characteristics #**simple v full-featured #**contemporary v historic "look & feel" #**low v higher hardware resource pre-requisites #*many distributions have a choice of Desktop Environments, whilst being similar "under the hood" #Installing too Soon #*live DVD are generally free and do not time-expire #**time to reboot from USB 3 device is relatively short #*evaluate at least '''two''' Desktop Environments #**from the same Distribution, to get the best comparison #*evaluate at least '''two''' Distributions #**staying with one Desktop Environment, to get the best comparison #Expecting '''all''' of your existing hardware to work #*Linux generally supports older hardware longer than do other OS - but #**drivers for new hardware might not be available quickly - plus #**there is insufficient market to make Linux drivers viable for some hardware #*in general, avoid buying new hardware without doing a search for "hardware model + Linux" d13ff01680f9c19e423ace89ef599d9a2635ba39 1792 1791 2021-10-05T00:28:35Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*often a longer "time to boot", on the same hardware, offset by #**fewer needs to reboot #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates #Expecting Linux to run (and very fast) on long superceded hardware #*specialised distributions can run remarkably well on such - but #**contemporary software, particularly for streaming, graphics editing etc require much more resources #**a dual-core (or fast single-core) CPU plus 2 GB RAM is required for reliable evaluations #**the majority of distributions have phased out releases for 32-bit computers #*popular distributions will run much better if (eventually) installed to SSD - but #**older computer '''BIOS''' doesn't support "AHCI", which is required to gain much benefit from SSD #Not Adjusting Settings #*many apparent "anoyances", such as background image, fonts etc can quickly be changed #**a summary Handbook is often accessible via the "Help" pull-down menu #Changing Distribution, when a different Desktop Environment would be better #*each Desktop Environment is designed & implemented for a range of characteristics #**simple v full-featured #**contemporary v historic "look & feel" #**low v higher hardware resource pre-requisites #*many distributions have a choice of Desktop Environments, whilst being similar "under the hood" #Installing too Soon #*live DVD are generally free and do not time-expire #**time to reboot from USB 3 device is relatively short #*evaluate at least '''two''' Desktop Environments #**from the same Distribution, to get the best comparison #*evaluate at least '''two''' Distributions #**staying with one Desktop Environment, to get the best comparison #Expecting '''all''' of your existing hardware to work #*Linux generally supports older hardware longer than do other OS - but #**drivers for new hardware might not be available quickly - plus #**there is insufficient market to make Linux drivers viable for some hardware #*in general, avoid buying new hardware without doing a search for "hardware model + Linux" 35f68ee03db2f81fd3cef116853e6fcad658fe7c 1793 1792 2021-10-05T00:53:12Z Rpeters 14 wikitext text/x-wiki Changing Operating System involves a learning curve and might not be quick. Many people trying Linux abandon the attempt, too quickly, following inadequate investigation. Avoid the following, common mistakes: #Expecting a Windows/iOS experience, when the general look & feel might be similar but the different paradigm in Linux results in : #*often a longer "time to boot", on the same hardware, offset by #**fewer needs to reboot #*"drivers" being generally inbuilt and installed automatically #*antivirus software not being required #*frequent, but not automatic updates #Expecting Linux to run (and very fast) on long superceded hardware #*specialised distributions can run remarkably well on such - but #**contemporary software, particularly for streaming, graphics editing etc require much more resources #**a dual-core (or fast single-core) CPU plus 2 GB RAM is required for reliable evaluations #**the majority of distributions have phased out releases for 32-bit computers #*popular distributions will run much better if (eventually) installed to SSD - but #**older computer '''BIOS''' doesn't support "AHCI", which is required to gain much benefit from SSD #Not Adjusting Settings #*many apparent "anoyances", such as background image, fonts etc can quickly be changed #**a summary Handbook is often accessible via the "Help" pull-down menu #Changing Distribution, when a different Desktop Environment would be better #*each Desktop Environment is designed & implemented for a range of characteristics #**simple v full-featured #**contemporary v historic "look & feel" #**low v higher hardware resource pre-requisites #*many distributions have a choice of Desktop Environments, whilst being similar "under the hood" #Installing too Soon #*live DVD are generally free and do not time-expire #**time to reboot from USB 3 device is relatively short #*evaluate at least '''two''' Desktop Environments #**from the same Distribution, to get the best comparison #*evaluate at least '''two''' Distributions #**staying with one Desktop Environment, to get the best comparison #Expecting '''all''' of your existing hardware to work #*Linux generally supports older hardware longer than do other OS - but #**drivers for new hardware might not be available quickly - plus #**there is insufficient market to make Linux drivers viable for some hardware #*in general, avoid buying new hardware without doing a search for "hardware model + Linux" 0224afadfb71114d148f9ad53ff25366395057a4